Innovation and Execution
We are focused on moving projects as quickly as possible from proof of concept where we have made an initial understanding of the mechanism of action until commercialization. Our understanding of the mechanism then translates itself into a development strategy that takes into consideration, not only the patient voices, but also the market needs. The market needs can be the regulatory environment or the commercial environment, but we believe that all that combined will actually solidify the development strategy. We are also focused on continuously improving our product development capabilities to sustainably improve the value of our products through life cycle management. In addition to improving eye drop containers, we are also expanding our focus to other ophthalmic disease areas that we have not previously explored. We are continuously working to provide greater value for patients.
Our global network
Developing new pharmaceuticals entails a long period of over 10 years, as well as a diverse process ranging from basic research to marketing. To free patients from concerns over their illness as soon as possible and deliver happiness through the best vision experience, we must improve the efficiency of our R&D process. To this end, Santen conducts drug discovery and clinical development on a global basis, utilizing facilities of the Santen Group and related organizations worldwide. In this way, we are reinforcing our system to create new products that meet global medical needs in a timely manner. In terms of research activities, within Santen we have concentrated our basic research, non-clinical studies, and drug formulation research at Nara Research and Development Center, so as to integrate the knowledge of our various sections and to work closely together to improve the quality and the speed of research and development, especially in the early stages. We are committed to develop innovative products in collaboration with Academia/Research Institute, Biotech, Pharmaceutical/Chemical companies and Patient Advocacy Groups & Alliances. We believe that building Santen's unique networks is indispensable for continuous product development.
Innovative product development in collaboration with Academia/Research Institute, Biotech, Pharmaceutical/Chemical companies and Patient Advocacy Groups & Alliances
Continuous product improvement for further medication adherence
One of our core strengths is transforming formulations from their original state into more optimal and advanced ophthalmic drugs. There are several approaches to improving products as they are developed for patients. While benzalkonium chloride (BAK) is commonly used as a preservative, it is not considered optimal due to its potential association with unexpected reactions, allergies, and hyperemia. To address this, we have pursued strategies such as reducing BAK concentration, developing BAK-free products, and advancing preservative-free ophthalmic solutions, with the aim of improving convenience and reducing the burden on patients’ eyes.
Furthermore, we continue to enhance our products with a focus on improving treatment adherence. To reduce dosing frequency for products that previously required multiple daily administrations, we have pursued formulation changes, and in 2024, achieved this by developing an eyelid-applied formulation. This product was developed based on an existing twice-daily eye drop for allergic conjunctivitis containing the same active ingredient, reimagined as a once-daily trans-eyelid application to the upper and lower eyelids, and was successfully developed and launched in Japan as a novel dosage form.
