DAINIPPON SUMITOMO, EISAI TO MARKET GASMOTIN

Japan-based drug companies Dainippon Sumitomo Pharma and Eisai have signed a licensing agreement to market Gasmotin, a gastroprokinetic agent, in 10 Asian countries, including Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines.

Under the agreement, Dainippon Sumitomo will grant the rights of development, manufacturing and marketing of Gasmotin to Eisai. Eisai will be responsible for the filing of new drug applications for the drug in the affected countries.

Gasmotin has indications for gastrointestinal symptoms associated with chronic gastritis (heartburn, nausea and vomiting). The drug is a selective serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonist that stimulates 5-HT4 receptors in nerve plexuses in the gastrointestinal tract and has gastroprokinetic and gastric evacuant effects by enhancing acetylcholine release.