China-Singapore Health Weekly – Huaren Pharmaceutical is involved in a 284 million yuan equity dispute; Wuxi Medical Insurance Bureau files an administrative case against a hospital suspected of defra

Recently, significant developments have emerged in the healthcare sector in China. We sat down with industry experts to discuss these updates.

On September 18, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) announced the release of the “Technical Guidelines for Clinical Trials of Drugs for Chronic Heart Failure.” Chronic heart failure is a severe, progressive condition that remains one of the leading causes of death due to cardiovascular disease. However, effective treatments are currently lacking. The guidelines aim to encourage innovative drug development in this area by providing necessary technical guidance.

Furthermore, the NMPA has initiated plans for two recommended healthcare standards related to medical devices that utilize brain-machine interface technology. This decision follows public consultations and expert reviews, highlighting the administration’s commitment to advancing healthcare technologies.

In the corporate sector, Betta Pharmaceuticals has secured its first distribution rights for a plant-derived albumin product. On September 19, the company announced its intention to sign a regional distribution agreement with Wuhan Heyuan Biotechnology Co., Ltd. regarding the commercialization of a recombinant human serum albumin injection.

Another noteworthy announcement came from GeroCare Pharmaceuticals, which on September 17 revealed its entry into the obesity medication market with its small-molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist ASC30. This drug undergoes both monthly subcutaneous injections and daily oral administration. The ASC30 is a groundbreaking product in this space, as it combines both delivery methods for obesity treatment. The FDA has granted investigative new drug status for both the tablet and injection forms, with top-line data expected in early 2025.

Moreover, on September 20, it was reported that a wholly-owned subsidiary of Zhongguancun plans to acquire a 51% stake in Gome Internet Hospital for zero consideration. Following this acquisition, they will hold the controlling interest in the hospital.

In terms of drug approvals, AbbVie has submitted a new indication for Venetoclax in China. The application is currently under review, following previous approvals for treating adult acute myeloid leukemia. Additionally, Ocular Therapeutix’s dexamethasone implant for treating postoperative inflammation has also been accepted for review. This implant provides a sustained release of the anti-inflammatory medication, aiming to mitigate postoperative issues effectively.

For Han Yucheng Pharma, the approval of Exenatide, a GLP-1 analog for type 2 diabetes management, was confirmed on September 18, marking an important milestone for the company.

On a different note, in the leadership sphere, Chutian Technology reported the resignation of a 90s-born executive, Lei Yu, who, due to personal reasons, stepped down from his senior management role. This resignation comes amid legal issues, as he has been placed under residential surveillance following a police notice.

Finally, Huaren Pharmaceutical is facing litigation over a significant equity transfer dispute amounting to 284 million yuan, reflecting ongoing challenges in the corporate landscape. Concurrently, the Wuxi Medical Insurance Bureau has initiated an administrative case against a local hospital suspected of fraudulent practices, indicating ongoing scrutiny within the healthcare sector.

These stories encapsulate a week filled with critical developments in China’s healthcare landscape as stakeholders continue to navigate innovation, compliance, and corporate responsibility.