Addressing 'Drug Loss' in Japan: Strengthening New Drug Development Becomes Urgent
In recent years, the issue of "drug loss" has garnered significant attention within Japan. Drug loss refers to a situation where new drugs developed overseas are not approved in Japan, leaving patients unable to access them. To improve this situation, the government, corporations, and universities are working together to expedite countermeasures.
Currently, Japan's medical field faces the challenge of not being able to immediately obtain the latest drugs that are used as standard treatments abroad. Especially in the fields of cancer treatment and rare diseases, patients and doctors seeking new treatment options are calling for urgent improvements.
To resolve this issue, industry, government, and academia are working together to strengthen "drug discovery capabilities." Specifically, consideration is being given to creating an environment where clinical trials for new drugs can be conducted smoothly in accordance with international standards. One of the goals is for Japan to be chosen by overseas pharmaceutical companies as a country where clinical trials are conducted.
Moving forward, plans are in place to develop mechanisms to simplify clinical trial procedures and promote the sharing of data necessary for development. For Japan to continue providing world-class medical care, it is essential to accelerate domestic new drug development and enhance its international competitiveness.