Sandoz launches biosimilar Filgrastim BS Injection 75 µg/150 µg/ 300 µg Syringe in Japan

Tokyo, Japan, December 1, 2014 ― Sandoz, the generic pharmaceutical division of Novartis, today announced the launch in Japan of biosimilar Filgrastim BS Injection 75µg / 150µg / 300µg Syringe. Filgrastim is used with certain cancer patients to accelerate recovery of infection-fighting white blood cells after chemotherapy (prevention of neutropenia) and is also used to stimulate mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells for collection and transplantation.

“As the pioneer and global leader in biosimilars we are very pleased to announce the launch of our second biosimilar product in Japan”, said Junichi Nakamichi, Country Head of Sandoz Japan. “Sandoz’s filgrastim is marketed in over 50 countries. We are pleased to make this important product available to patients and healthcare professionals in Japan.”

Sandoz Japan will co-promote the product with Sawai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Filgrastim BS Injection 75µg / 150µg / 300µg Syringe Product Overview

Product Name: Filgrastim BS Injection 75µg / 150µg / 300µg Syringe

Generic Name: Filgrastim (recombinant)

Indications: Mobilization of hematopoietic progenitor cells to peripheral blood, Acceleration of an increase in the number of neutrophils following hematopoietic progenitor cells transplantation, Neutropenia caused by cancer chemotherapy, Neutropenia conflicting with the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, Neutropenia accompanying myelodysplastic syndrome, Neutropenia accompanying aplastic anemia, Congenital/idiopathic neutropenias

About Sandoz

Sandoz, the generic pharmaceuticals division of Novartis, is a global leader in the generic pharmaceutical sector. Sandoz employs over 26,500 employees and its products are available in more than 160 countries, offering a broad range of high-quality, affordable products that are no longer protected by patents. With USD 9.2 billion in sales in 2013, Sandoz has a portfolio of approximately 1,100 molecules, and holds the #1 position globally in biosimilars as well as in generic injectables, ophthalmics, dermatology and antibiotics, complemented by leading positions in the cardiovascular, metabolism, central nervous system, pain, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and hormonal therapeutic areas. Sandoz develops, produces, and markets these medicines, as well as active pharmaceutical and biotechnological substances. Nearly half of Sandoz's portfolio is in differentiated products, which are defined as products that are more difficult to scientifically develop and manufacture than standard generics.

In addition to strong organic growth since consolidating its generics businesses under the Sandoz brand name in 2003, Sandoz has benefitted from strong growth of its acquisitions, which include Lek (Slovenia), Sabex (Canada), Hexal (Germany), Eon Labs (US), EBEWE Pharma (Austria), Oriel Therapeutics (US), and Fougera Pharmaceuticals (US).

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For further information, contact:

Michiyo Morimoto
Head, Communications,
Sandoz Japan
+81 (0)3 5469 5653
[email protected]

Sreejit Mohan
Head of Communications,
Sandoz Biopharmaceuticals & Oncology Injectables
+49 (0)8024 476 2550
[email protected]