Change In Prescription Form Brings Changes To Japan’s Generic Drug Industry
This article was originally published in PharmAsia News
Executive Summary
The change in remuneration for medical services starting in April could greatly impact the generic drug industry in Japan. A new prescription form will provide that pharmacies can make substitutions unless a doctor specifically requests that a generic or substitution drug cannot be prescribed. Currently, substitutions are difficult except for some extreme situations. Pharmacies can substitute among various generic drugs, and procure from multiple brands thus reducing the need for surplus inventories. Branding will be vital for makers, along with price. Major players that have an enhanced product lineup may have a strong advantage. Foreign generic drug giants such as Teva, Sandoz, Mylan Laboratories and Lupin, which bought Osaka-based Kyowa Yakuhin last year, will be closely watched. (Click for more-Japanese language