Takeda and ASKA To Distribute Hypertension Treatment
By Cyndi Root
Takeda Pharmaceutical announced in a press release that it has agreed to distribute a hypertension treatment with ASKA Pharmaceutical. The drug is called Candesartan “ASKA” (candesartan cilexetil), a generic for the branded drug, Blopress, which came off patent protection in 2008. Takeda said that it recognizes the need for generic drugs and that Candesartan “ASKA” can meets the diverse needs of patients and healthcare professionals.
Takeda and ASKA Agreement
Takeda licensed the patent for Candesartan “ASKA” to ASKA, which obtained approval for the drug from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. ASKA has applied for listing on the National Health Insurance (NHI) Price List for June 2014. According to the agreement, after Candesartan “ASKA” is listed on the NHI Price list, ASKA will begin promoting it to healthcare providers. Takeda will purchase the drug from ASKA and distribute it to wholesalers. The two companies did not disclose the financial terms. ASKA launched a Generics Business Division in 2013 to work with its pharmaceutical business division. Candesartan “ASKA” adds to ASKA’s product line and extends the company’s generics division.
Candesartan “ASKA”
Candesartan “ASKA” (candesartan cilexetil) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used for the treatment of hypertension in adults and children, used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. It is also prescribed for the treatment of heart failure. For hypertension, dosage is individualized. Patients usually start with 16 mg once daily for monotherapy. Doses may be twice daily from 2 to 32 mg. Patients respond within two weeks, and maximum blood pressure control is usually achieved within six weeks.
Clinical Studies
Clinical studies with candesartan cilexetil in monotherapy demonstrated significant effects on systolic and diastolic pressures compared to a placebo. When added to hydrochlorothiazide, candesartan cilexetil had additional blood pressure lowering effect. Effects were similar in men and women, and in older adults and children regardless of race. However, the effect was somewhat less in blacks, due to low-renin. Patients maintained appropriate blood pressure up to one year with no negative effects on the heart.