The Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has approved Teijin Pharma's novel expectorant drug formulated as a reduced-size tablet, Mucosolvan L tablet 45 mg (ambroxol hydrochloride). Teijin Pharma plans to launch the tablet this summer.

This sustained-release tablet measures just 7.5 mm x 6 mm, which is smaller and more easily swallowed than conventional once-daily expectorant drugs. It contains the same active ingredient as Mucosolvan L capsule 45mg, a once-daily product now on the market, and expected to have the same effect, especially when administered after dinner for the treatment of productive sputum the following morning.

The medical field has high expectations for the tablet’s reduced size, as expectorants are often taken with other drugs. The tablet is also expected to be effective for treating productive sputum in the morning.

Mucosolvan, an ethical drug for patients with respiratory diseases, such as bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), helps to reduce sputum adhesion to the trachea and the bronchus. More than 60 per cent of patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD suffer productive sputum in the morning.

Mucosolvan, which has been licensed by Boehringer Ingelheim Opening a new window and on sale since 1984, responds to the needs of those who prefer a formulation other than a liquid, syrup or once-daily capsule.

Teijin is a technology-driven global group offering advanced solutions in the areas of sustainable transportation, information and electronics, safety and protection, environment and energy, and healthcare.