Chugai and Zenyaku Kogyo will end their co-promotion of Rituxan (rituximab) in Japan, with Zenyaku assuming sole sales and medical information responsibilities from September 2026.
Written By: Mahathi Palivela, PharmD
Reviewed By: Pharmacally Editorial Team
Zenyaku Kogyo Co., Ltd. and Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. announced they will terminate their co-promotion agreement in Japan for Rituxan intravenous infusion 100 mg and 500 mg (rituximab, genetic recombination), effective September 3, 2026.
The companies have jointly conducted promotional and medical information activities for Rituxan in Japan. Following a review of future sales policy, Chugai will discontinue sales after its remaining inventory is sold out.
Beginning September 4, 2026, Zenyaku Kogyo will assume sole responsibility for product sales and medical information services.
Both companies stated they will coordinate closely to ensure a smooth transition of commercial and medical activities. During the transfer period, Zenyaku Kogyo and Chugai will continue their existing efforts to maintain stable supply, provide information aligned with clinical needs, and support appropriate use of Rituxan.
The announcement did not disclose financial terms or changes to product availability beyond the planned transfer of responsibilities. Trademarks referenced in the announcement remain legally protected.
Rituxan (rituximab) is an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that targets the CD20 antigen expressed on B lymphocytes. By binding to CD20, Rituxan promotes B-cell depletion through complement-dependent cytotoxicity, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and apoptosis. The therapy is widely used in B-cell malignancies such as Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, as well as certain autoimmune conditions including Rheumatoid arthritis.
References
Chugai Report Announcement of Termination of Co-Promotion of Rituxan® in Japan (Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibody, 09 April 2026 Apr 9, 2026｜Announcement of Termination of Co-Promotion of Rituxan® in Japan (Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibody) | News | CHUGAI PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD.
About the Writer
Mahathi Palivela is pursuing PharmD and has a strong interest in Clinical Pharmacy and Patient safety. She is passionate about handling and analyzing patient data, and translating clinical insights into clear, meaningful summaries. She aims to apply this interest in Medical Writing and Pharmacovigilance, focusing on improving patient outcomes through careful data interpretation and communication.
