The French firm’s antidiabetic drug has enjoyed some traction in the Japanese market following the end of launch year restrictions, raising hopes that other Asian partnerships could help improve its financial position.

A version of the diabetes drug intended to reduce PPAR gamma activation shows hoped for benefits and safety in a Phase II study. Poxel will now choose to advance one of two mid-stage NASH candidates.

Poxel’s shift to new therapeutic areas may be necessary despite Japan’s approval for its diabetes drug. Twymeeg looks set to be hamstrung by placebo-controlled studies without outcomes data.

Japan's latest batch of product approvals includes the country's second therapy for SMA and the first nod globally for a novel antidiabetic.