Celltrion said April 28 that it has launched Aptozma (tocilizumab), an autoimmune disease treatment, in Japan as a first mover.
The launch comes about seven months after the drug won marketing approval from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in September. Celltrion said it has secured approvals for key indications including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Castleman disease and cytokine release syndrome.
Celltrion’s Japan unit plans to supply the product through a direct sales system. The company said it aims to speed market adoption by drawing on sales capabilities and supply experience built through its existing autoimmune treatments.
Ahead of the launch, the company provided scientific information to clinicians and shared clinical data at the 70th Annual Meeting of the Japan College of Rheumatology to raise awareness of the product.
Celltrion said it has established a stable foothold in Japan’s autoimmune disease market. Remsima and Yuflyma hold 44% and 19% market share, respectively, and remain among the top prescribed biosimilars, while Stekima continues to grow. With Aptozma, the company’s local portfolio has expanded to four products.
Celltrion said it plans to maximize synergies across its products and step up marketing to medical institutions. It said portfolio expansion is expected to continue, with Omliclo targeted for launch in the second half of the year and Remsima SC also being prepared for entry into the Japanese market.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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