News Releases

Taiho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (hereinafter “Taiho”) today announced that “Arokaris_® I.V. infusion 235mg” (generic name: fosnetupitant chloride hydrochloride), a selective NK₁ receptor antagonist antiemetic drug, has been listed on the National Health Insurance (NHI) reimbursement price list. The new product is scheduled for launch on May 30, 2022 in Japan.

Arokaris_® is a selective NK₁ receptor antagonist antiemetic drug developed for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. It is a phosphorylated pro-drug preparation (injection) which is converted to netupitant, the active component. Preventing nausea and vomiting occurring after cancer chemotherapy administration is considered clinically important. Taiho, which acquired exclusive development and marketing rights for Arokaris_® in Japan under a license agreement with Helsinn Healthcare SA in April 2011, has conducted clinical trials in Japan since then. In March 2022, Taiho obtained approval to manufacture and market the selective NK₁ receptor antagonist antiemetic drug Arokaris_® for gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea and vomiting, including delayed phase) associated with cancer chemotherapy (cisplatin, etc.).¹

Within Taiho’s mainstay field of oncology, the company is also focusing on cancer supportive care, an area of high unmet medical need. Under a former distribution and license agreement with the Helsinn Healthcare SA, effective as of January 2004, Taiho has been marketing the 5-HT₃ receptor antagonist “Aloxi_® I.V. injection 0.75mg” (generic name: palonosetron hydrochloride) in Japan since April 2010 and its additional dosage form, “Aloxi_® I.V. infusion bag 0.75mg,” since December 2012.

Taiho will promote the proper use of Arokaris_® to ensure that it can make further contributions to patients and healthcare professionals.

Helsinn is a fully integrated, global biopharma company headquartered in Lugano, Switzerland. It is focused on improving the lives of cancer patients all over the world with a leading position in cancer supportive care and an innovative pipeline of cancer therapeutics.

Helsinn is a third-generation family-owned company, that since 1976 has been focused on improving the lives of patients, guided by core values of respect, integrity and quality. It operates a unique licensing business model with integrated drug development and manufacturing capabilities. Helsinn has a commercial presence in 190 countries either directly, with operating subsidiaries in the U.S. and China, or via its network of long-standing trusted partners. Helsinn also has a fully integrated supply chain and product development through its subsidiary in Ireland, Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Helsinn plays an active and central role in promoting social transformation in favor of people and the environment. Corporate social responsibility is at the heart of everything we do, which is reinforced in the company’s strategic plan by a commitment to sustainable growth.

To learn more about Helsinn Group please visit www.helsinn.com

1. Taiho Pharmaceutical Obtains Approval to Manufacture and Market NK₁ Receptor Antagonist Arokaris^® I.V. Infusion 235mg in Japan　(March 28, 2022, News Release)