The company has been recognised for its Research and Development in Oncology and Immunology, and Product Launches in Oncology. Furthermore, the company’s novel and impactful media campaign has made it the overall winner in the Marketing category at the 2023 Clinical Trial Excellence Awards.
Research and Development awards for Chugai Pharmaceutical
Chugai’s Alecensa, an anti-cancer agent and ALK inhibitor, has been recognised for delivering positive Phase III results for people with ALK-positive early-stage lung cancer. The ALINA study demonstrated that Alecensa significantly improved disease-free survival (DFS) as adjuvant therapy in patients with completely resected stage IB to IIIA ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This marks the first time an ALK inhibitor has shown a reduction in the risk of disease recurrence or death in a Phase III trial for early-stage ALK-positive NSCLC.
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The significance of this development cannot be overstated, as approximately half of all people with early lung cancer experience a recurrence following surgery, despite adjuvant chemotherapy. Alecensa’s breakthrough offers hope for a greater number of patients with early-stage NSCLC to potentially achieve a cure.
Chugai’s innovation in Immunology R&D is based on the approval of Rituxan®, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, for the suppression and treatment of antibody-mediated rejection in organ transplantation. The development of Rituxan for organ transplantation was initiated based on high medical needs and has shown promise in suppressing the production of causative antibodies, thereby improving the chances of successful transplantation and organ function maintenance.
Chugai’s Product Launch in oncology
Chugai’s Phesgo®, a subcutaneous combination treatment for HER2-positive breast and colorectal cancer, has been recognised as a significant product launch in oncology in 2023. A fixed-dose combination of pertuzumab, trastuzumab, and vorhyaluronidase alfa, Phesgo simplifies administration and reduces infusion time compared to conventional intravenous injections. This not only enhances patient convenience but also contributes to the efficiency of medical resources.
The approval of Phesgo was based on the FeDeriCa and PHranceSCa studies, which evaluated its pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety, as well as patient preference and satisfaction. Phesgo’s launch represents a significant advancement in the treatment landscape for HER2-positive cancers, offering patients a more manageable and less time-consuming therapy option.
Marketing award for Chugai Pharmaceutical
Chugai’s innovative approach extends beyond R&D and into its marketing strategies. The company’s new TV commercial featuring Tori Matsuzaka, titled “Innovation Lab / AI-leveraging drug discovery,” showcases Chugai’s dedication to accelerating the discovery of new drugs through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The commercial highlights MALEXA®, Chugai’s unique AI-based technology that supports the discovery of antibody therapeutics, symbolising the fusion of human researchers and artificial intelligence.
The marketing campaign, which incorporates AI, has a significant impact on the perception of technology in the pharmaceutical industry. It not only educates the public about new technologies in drug discovery but also positions the company as an innovation leader within the industry. Furthermore, campaigning via a celebrity helps engage a broader audience as well as draws industry interest.
Company Profile
Established in 1925, Chugai Pharmaceutical has carved out a distinguished position in the global pharmaceutical industry, particularly as a vanguard in biotechnological research and the therapeutic antibody market. With a rich history spanning nearly a century, Chugai has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in healthcare.
With a workforce of over 7,600 employees, Chugai operates from its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. The company’s principal lines of business encompass the research, development, manufacturing, sale, importation, and exportation of pharmaceuticals. Chugai’s mission is to consistently deliver a pipeline of innovative products that meet unmet medical needs, thereby contributing significantly to the medical community and enhancing human health worldwide. The company’s strategic focus is on the creation of new drugs that possess either first-in-class or best-in-class potential, reflecting its dedication to making a tangible difference in patients’ lives.
Contact details
1-1 Nihonbashi-Muromachi 2-Chome
Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-8324
Japan
https://www.chugai-pharm.co.jp
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