Aska Pharmaceutical and Takeda Pharmaceutical have entered into a distribution agreement for Candesartan “ASKA” (generic: candesartan cilexetil, “Candesartan ‘ASKA’”), a treatment for hypertension.

Candesartan “ASKA”, is an authorised generic of Blopress (generic: candesartan cilexetil “Blopress”), which Takeda has licensed the patent to Aska. In February 2014, Aska obtained the approval for Candesartan “ASKA” from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and is currently applying for listing on the National Health Insurance (NHI) Price List for June 2014.

Under the terms of the agreement, Aska will launch and promote Candesartan “ASKA” to healthcare professionals after it is listed on the NHI price list. Takeda will purchase this drug from Aska, and will then be responsible for the distribution of the drug to wholesalers. Further terms of agreement are not disclosed.

In October 2013, Aska established a generics business division. The division will work jointly with the existing Pharma Business Division to promote the pharmaceutical sales business. The launch of Candesartan “ASKA” will expand Aska’s product lineup and strengthen its presence in the generics arena. This launch will also enable Aska to provide healthcare professionals and patients with an AG that contains identical active pharmaceutical ingredients, additives, and production method as Blopress.

Takeda will continue to pursue all business opportunities that provide new value to patients and healthcare professionals. In the current market environment, Takeda recognizes the social need for generic drugs while also maintaining quality, ensuring stable supply, and providing and collecting the information of the medicine. Takeda believes that Candesartan “ASKA” can meet the diverse needs of patients and healthcare professionals.

Aska and Takeda will strengthen their contributions to the treatment of hypertension through Blopress AG and will continue to provide pharmaceutical products to meet various medical needs.

Takeda will continue to collect clinical data results of Blopress with a focus on safety evaluation and provide this informationto healthcare professionals.