Multi-Dose Diquafosol Sodium Eye Drops Obtained Approval from NMPA for Commercialisation in China
HONG KONG – 25th July 2025 – Essex Bio-Technology Limited (“Essex” or the “Group,” Stock Code: 1061.HK) is delighted to announce that its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, Zhuhai Essex Bio-Pharmaceutical Company Limited, has received approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for the registration and commercialisation of its multi-dose Diquafosol Sodium Eye Drops in the People’s Republic of China.
The newly approved product is a multi-dose eye drop formulation containing 3% diquafosol sodium (5 ml:150 mg). It is indicated for the treatment of dry eye syndromes, specifically targeting conditions such as conjunctival epithelium injury and tear abnormalities. Diquafosol sodium, its active pharmaceutical ingredient, functions as a P2Y2 receptor agonist. It works by acting on conjunctival tissues to promote the secretion of tears, including both water and secretory mucins. Furthermore, it may also encourage the expression of membrane-bound mucins on the corneal epithelium. By boosting the lipid content in tears, this formulation is expected to quantitatively and qualitatively improve tear abnormalities, effectively bringing the ocular surface condition closer to normal and alleviating symptoms of dry eye and corneal epithelial damage.
This latest approval significantly enhances the range of high-quality treatment options available to patients in China, especially when combined with Essex’s previously approved preservative-free unit-dose Diquafosol Sodium Eye Drops. The commercialisation of this multi-dose format will further enrich the Group’s ophthalmic product portfolio and strengthen its market position within the ophthalmology segment.
About Essex (Stock Code: 1061.HK)
Essex is a distinguished biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development, manufacturing, and commercialisation of genetically engineered therapeutic b-bFGF. The Group currently boasts six commercialised biologics actively marketed in China. In addition to these, Essex offers a diverse portfolio including commercialised preservative-free unit-dose eye drops, Shilishun (iodised lecithin capsules), and other products. These are primarily prescribed for wound healing and the treatment of diseases within the Ophthalmology and Dermatology sectors.
Essex’s products are widely distributed and sold through approximately 14,000 hospitals across China, supported by the Company’s 44 regional offices. Leveraging its robust in-house R&D platform, which specialises in growth factor and antibody technology, Essex maintains a strong pipeline of projects at various clinical stages, covering a broad spectrum of medical fields and indications.
