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Shionogi applies for approval to market new flu drug

Thursday 05th November, 03:48 AM JST

OSAKA —

Shionogi & Co said Wednesday it has filed an application with the health ministry for approval to manufacture and sell a new drug to treat influenza, including the H1N1 virus strain, with an eye to start sales in the fall of next year. If approved, peramivir would serve as the third drug to be used for flu treatment in Japan in addition to Tamiflu and Relenza, which are made by foreign manufacturers.
   
Shionogi said its new drug application filing with Japan’s Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry is the first in the world for marketing approval of peramivir, which is administered intravenously. Although the Osaka-based pharmaceutical firm intends to launch the new drug next fall, it is prepared to start selling it earlier—as soon as it gains approval—depending on the epidemic situation of influenza and other circumstances.

© 2009 Kyodo News. All rights reserved. No reproduction or republication without written permission.

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