Shanghai Pharmaceuticals (HKG: 2607, SHA: 601607) has announced an import and distribution agreement with Japan-based Shionogi & Co., Ltd, becoming the exclusive importer and agent of the latter’s oral COVID-19 therapy ensitrelvir in mainland China. The two-year deal also includes a collaboration on innovative and generic drugs. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.
Drug Profile and Development
Ensitrelvir, co-developed by Hokkaido University, can inhibit the proliferation of COVID-19 by selectively blocking 3CL protease. The drug was approved via an emergency use channel in Japan to treat COVID-19 infection last month and is currently being prepared for a New Drug Application (NDA) filing in China.
Future Prospects and Strategic Implications
The import and distribution agreement positions Shanghai Pharmaceuticals to play a key role in bringing ensitrelvir to the Chinese market, addressing significant unmet medical needs in the treatment of COVID-19. This strategic move underscores Shanghai Pharmaceuticals’ commitment to expanding its portfolio of innovative therapies and enhancing its presence in the global pharmaceutical market.-Fineline Info & Tech
