Celltrion Pharm's Liver Disease Drug 'GODEX Capsule' Faces Risk of Reimbursement Removal... "Appeal Filed"

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] Celltrion Pharm's liver disease drug 'GODEX Capsule' has been deemed ineligible for health insurance reimbursement by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA). The company stated that it plans to file an objection immediately.

According to the pharmaceutical industry on the 7th, HIRA decided at the 7th Drug Reimbursement Evaluation Committee meeting that the combination drug containing 'adenine hydrochloride and six other components,' referring to GODEX, is not eligible for reimbursement.

Celltrion Pharm responded, "This is not the final evaluation result, and we plan to supplement the data immediately and submit an objection as soon as possible." Pharmaceutical companies subject to evaluation can submit an objection within 30 days after receiving HIRA's notification.

Celltrion Pharm explained that since being selected for this year's reimbursement evaluation items by HIRA's Drug Reimbursement Evaluation Committee in March, it has continuously submitted data that could serve as evidence of clinical usefulness.

Celltrion Pharm stated, "Since obtaining the initial sales approval in 2002, GODEX Capsule has proven its efficacy for liver diseases through various investigator-initiated clinical trials. It is estimated that about 480,000 patients in Korea were prescribed this representative liver disease drug just last year. During the objection period, we will fully consult with HIRA and the Ministry of Health and Welfare and actively clarify the company's position."