Kissei Applies For Approval In Japan For Second-Generation Urief

Matsumoto, Japan-based Kissei Pharmaceutical Co. is applying for approval for its second-generation dysuria drug Urief. Compared to the current Urief capsules, the new tablet form will be smaller in size and easier to swallow. Urief treats urination difficulties by enabling the prostate muscles to relax to improve urethra resistance. Jointly developed by Kissei and Daiichi Pharmaceutical Co. (now Daiichi Sankyo), Urief was originally launched in May 2006. Kissei hopes that as the Japanese population ages and more patients suffer urination difficulties, the new easy-to-swallow tablet will result in an increase in sales. The new product is expected to launch in 2009. (Click here for more - may require subscription.)