GC Biopharma expands lineup to target antihistamine market

Sequentially lists ‘Neofexo Tab 120mg, 180mg’

Competes in the prescription market with Handok, Hanmi, Yuyu Pharma, etc.

GC Biopharma is expanding its reimbursed lineup of its fexofenadine-based Neofexo Tablets this year to strengthen its position in the prescription market for allergic rhinitis.

By increasing the number of reimbursed items, it is entering the antihistamine prescription market as a latecomer, where companies like Handok, Hanmi, and Yuyu are competing.

According to industry sources on the 24th, following the listing of Neofexo Tab 120mg (fexofenadine hydrochloride) in January, GC Biopharma will add Neofexo Tab 180mg to the reimbursement list in March.

GC Biopharma plans to list Neofexo Tab 180mg for reimbursement in March. AI-generated image.

The reimbursement ceiling price for Neofexo Tab 180mg has been set at KRW 267. Neofexo Tab 120mg, listed in January, previously received a ceiling price of KRW 220.

Fexofenadine, a third-generation antihistamine, is marketed as both an over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drug. The 120mg formulation is available in both categories, while the 180mg strength is prescribed exclusively.

OTC formulations are indicated solely for the relief of seasonal allergic rhinitis, whereas prescription products carry broader indications, including symptom relief in chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Neofexo Tab 120mg was approved as an OTC product, while the newly listed Neofexo Tab 180mg can only be sold as a prescription drug.

A review of previously reimbursed products shows that companies including Handok, Hanmi Pharm, Yuyu Pharma, Chong Kun Dang, Il-Yang Pharm, and Hutecs Korea are actively competing in the prescription segment.

Meanwhile, Allegra Tab, the original fexofenadine product, continues to demonstrate steady sales growth. According to UBIST, Allegra recorded sales of KRW 7.9 billion last year, marking a 9% increase year-on-year. Hanmi Pharm’s Fexonadine Tab also posted modest growth, rising 2% to KRW 3.3 billion.

GC Biopharma already markets Allerjet Soft Cap, a 60mg OTC fexofenadine hydrochloride product approved in 2023.

With reimbursement coverage now for Neofexo Tab, the company is expected to accelerate its strategic push into the allergic rhinitis market.