Graceptor is a once-daily modified release formulation of Astella’s Prograf (tacrolimus, twice-daily formulation). Tacrolimus works as an immunosuppressant by inhibiting production of cytokinine including differentiation or growth factor secreted from T-cell, interleukin-2 and interferon-gamma.
Once daily formulation of Graceptor is expected to improve long-term compliance with its more convenient once-daily dosing option, and may have the potential to reduce the incidence of graft loss.
Astellas expects to provide a new option for transplant medication with the new line-up for Prograf family. The launch timing will be announced after it appears in the NHI drug price list.