Celltrion announced today the launch of its autoimmune disease treatment, Avtozma (active ingredient: tocilizumab), in Japan as a first-mover on Tuesday.
Avtozma’s release comes approximately seven months after receiving product approval from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) last September.
At the time of approval, Celltrion secured authorization for key indications held by the original drug, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), Castleman’s disease (CD), and cytokine release syndrome (CRS).
Celltrion’s Japanese subsidiary plans to directly market Avtozma, aiming to establish a strong market presence by leveraging its sales expertise and supply capabilities developed through existing products.
Celltrion continues to maintain stable sales performance in the Japanese autoimmune disease market. The company’s flagship autoimmune disease treatments, Remsima (infliximab) and Yuflyma (adalimumab), hold market shares of 44% and 19% respectively, leading biosimilar prescriptions in Japan.
Furthermore, Steqeyma (ustekinumab), launched last August, is showing steady growth. Celltrion intends to capitalize on its expanded portfolio of four autoimmune disease products to conduct targeted marketing activities for local healthcare institutions.
Looking ahead, Celltrion plans to further expand its autoimmune disease product line in Japan. The company is preparing for the local launch of Omlyclo (omalizumab), which received product approval in Japan this March, targeting a release in the second half of the year. It also aims to introduce Remsima SC, the world’s only subcutaneous formulation of infliximab, to the Japanese market.
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues instead of external pathogens, resulting in chronic inflammation and tissue damage. This category encompasses various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, where long-term treatment and personalized medication based on the patient’s condition are crucial.
A Celltrion spokesperson stated that with the introduction of Avtozma, the portfolio of autoimmune disease products in Japan has expanded to four. It anticipates this will enhance synergy among the products and strengthen our competitive edge. It will leverage the accumulated experience and established sales network from existing products to ensure a stable supply of Avtozma and reinforce our position in the Japanese market.