Sandoz has launched its recombinant human growth hormone somatropin in Japan. The launch follows the precedent-setting approval of somatropin – marketed as Omnitrope in the EU, the US, Australia and elsewhere – by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) in June this year.
Somatropin is approved in Japan for treatment of growth hormone deficiency in children and growth disturbance associated with Turner’s syndrome or chronic renal insufficiency, the same indications as the reference product, Genotropin.
Jeff George, CEO of Sandoz, said: “Biopharmaceuticals offer real therapeutic hope to those suffering from the most complex diseases of modern society. Biosimilars, by Sandoz, increase access to these essential drugs, lowering treatment costs and saving money for the healthcare system.”
According to Professor Bertram Häussler, director of Germany’s IGES Institute, market data on use of biosimilars in the EU show how price competition has generated significant savings.
Junichi Nakamichi, country head of Sandoz Japan: “Japan can learn some valuable lessons from the market experience and data provided by the European example. We look forward to working with Japanese stakeholders to help ensure that our country benefits fully from the potential of these remarkable new medicines.”