Singapore-headquartered Juniper Therapeutix, a science-led healthcare company focused on commercializing novel therapies, announced its agreement with Ping-An Shionogi Hong Kong, a group company of Shionogi & Co., Ltd, to license the rights to Ensitrelvir Fumaric Acid ("Ensitrelvir") for Singapore. Juniper Biologics has applied for private patient access with the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of the Republic of Singapore for the indication of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Ensitrelvir is an antiviral drug for COVID-19 that has already been approved under the emergency regulatory approval system in Japan. The drug is a 3CL protease inhibitor created through joint research between Hokkaido University and Shionogi. Ensitrelvir suppresses the replication of SARS-CoV-2 by selectively inhibiting 3CL protease. It is the first antiviral drug to show both clinical symptomatic efficacy for five typical Omicron-related symptoms and antiviral efficacy in patients with a mild to moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection.

"While the severity of COVID-19 has lessened, it continues to be a cause for concern, underscoring the continued importance of prioritizing preparedness and proactive healthcare. Ensitrelvir stands as a critical tool to manage cases effectively, providing an extra layer of support and care in our ongoing battle against this ever-evolving virus," said Raman Singh, CEO of Juniper Biologics. "By partnering with Shionogi, we are proud to be enabling access to Ensitrelvir. This ingestible therapeutic drug will go a significant way in helping patients infected with COVID-19 recover quickly and return to their normal lives."

Shionogi Group, including Ping An-Shionogi Hong Kong, will continue to work closely with Juniper Therapeutics to provide the necessary support for approval and commercial launch in Singapore based on the current agreement.