“Nhwa has deep neuro-psychiatry expertise and capabilities, from research and development to commercialization,” commented Theodor Wee, General Manager of Teva Greater China. “Together, we can promote cost-effective delivery of safe, quality medicines and contribute to the sustainability of China’s healthcare system.”

Huntington’s disease is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder. Chorea, one of the most striking physical manifestations of Huntington’s disease, is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary, random muscle movements. It is one of the main symptoms of the disease, occurring in up to 90% of adults living with Huntington’s disease¹.

Tardive dyskinesia is another disorder that results in repetitive and uncontrollable movements of the tongue, lips, face, trunk and extremities, affecting 20-50% of patients on long-term antipsychotic medication. For patients with schizophrenia, who are more likely to be treated with antipsychotic medication, the prevalence of TD in China is higher (36.0%~46.5% [²³⁴]), than the global average (25.3%⁵)^..

“As the first deuterated drug approved in China, AUSTEDO offers an innovative treatment for chorea associated with Huntington’s disease and tardive dyskinesia in adults—debilitating disorders that directly impact daily function and quality of life,” added Sun Jiaquan, President and CEO of Nhwa.

In a deuterated drug, hydrogen atoms are replaced with deuterium, which may significantly lower metabolism rates. The deuterium technology used in AUSTEDO allows less frequent dosing for patients.

“We are committed to addressing the pressing needs of patients in China with more innovative medicines, in line with our commitment throughout our International Markets region and across the globe,” said Mark Sabag, EVP and Head of International Markets at Teva. “This partnership assists us with further growing AUSTEDO as a global leading brand, with over $1.2 billion in revenues in 2023, and to deliver on Teva’s Pivot to Growth strategy and providing better health for our patients.”