Ono Pharmaceutical to transfer Forxiga (dapagliflozin) sales and promotion in Japan to AstraZeneca by March 31, 2026, ending 2013 co-promotion deal amid generic competition. Minimal financial impact expected.
Written By: Pharmacally Medical News Desk
Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., based in Osaka, Japan, has reached a pivotal agreement to transfer all distribution, sales, and promotion responsibilities for Forxiga® (dapagliflozin) a blockbuster selective SGLT2 inhibitor to AstraZeneca in Japan. Announced today, the memorandum dated February 27, 2026, involves Ono, AstraZeneca K.K. (also headquartered in Osaka), and AstraZeneca UK Limited, effectively terminating their long-standing marketing and co-promotion deal originally signed in December 2013.
Forxiga, available in 5 mg and 10 mg tablet strengths, has been a cornerstone treatment since its Japanese approval in March 2014 for type 2 diabetes. Ono handled primary distribution and sales, while partnering with AstraZeneca on co-promotion efforts. The drug’s indications have since expanded to include type 1 diabetes, chronic heart failure, and chronic kidney disease, underscoring its versatility in addressing cardiometabolic conditions.
The decision stems from evolving market dynamics, particularly the December 2025 launch of generic type 2 diabetes products in Japan. These generics have intensified competition, prompting “extensive discussions” between the partners. As a result, the agreement will fully terminate on March 31, 2026, after required procedures. From April 1 onward, AstraZeneca will take sole control of marketing, sales, promotion, and distribution in Japan.
Both companies commit to a seamless handover, maintaining stable supply chains, product information exchange, and proper usage promotion through the transition period. This collaboration aims to minimize disruptions for patients and healthcare providers relying on Forxiga.
Financially, Ono expects negligible effects on its current fiscal year (ending March 31, 2026), with Forxiga sales projected at 80 billion Japanese yen based on its February 2, 2026, third-quarter results. Post-April 1, 2026, Ono will record no further revenue from the product. While standalone operating profit details aren’t disclosed, Ono anticipates limited impact on its fiscal year ending March 2027 operating profit, given the generic influx. Full earnings impacts will be detailed in the March 31, 2026, consolidated results.
This shift reflects broader trends in Japan’s pharmaceutical landscape, where patent cliffs and generics are reshaping partnerships for established therapies like SGLT2 inhibitors.
For Ono, it signals a strategic pivot away from Forxiga toward other pipeline priorities, while AstraZeneca consolidates control over a key asset in a competitive market.
References
Announcement concerning the Transfer of Distribution, Sales and Termination of Co-promotion for SGLT2 Inhibitor “Forxiga® 5 mg, 10 mg Tablets’’ in Japan, 27 February 2026, Announcement concerning the Transfer of Distribution, Sales and Termination of Co-promotion for SGLT2 Inhibitor “Forxiga® 5 mg, 10 mg Tablets’’ in Japan | ONO CORPORATE