NEFECON®: A Game-Changer for IgAN Patients in China

Everest Medicines' groundbreaking drug, NEFECON®, has been included in China's National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL), marking a significant milestone in the treatment of primary immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). This innovative therapy, the world's first approved for IgAN, brings hope and improved accessibility to the approximately 5 million IgAN patients in China. Let's delve into the implications of this inclusion for patients, healthcare providers, and the market.

NEFECON®'s inclusion in the NRDL is a testament to its clinical value and the unmet medical need it addresses. IgAN is the most common primary glomerular disease in China, affecting young individuals and often progressing to end-stage renal disease. Current treatments, such as renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors, do not fundamentally alter disease progression. NEFECON®, however, has demonstrated a statistically significant benefit in renal function protection and delay of disease progression in clinical trials.

The NRDL's insurance coverage of up to 60% of NEFECON®'s drug costs will significantly enhance affordability for patients. This financial relief is crucial for improving patient adherence and compliance. The reimbursement policy is expected to drive adoption among healthcare providers, as it encourages the prescription of this effective and recommended first-line treatment. NEFECON®'s market penetration is likely to accelerate, further solidifying its first-line cornerstone position in IgAN treatment.

Everest Medicines stands to benefit significantly from NEFECON®'s inclusion in the NRDL. With increased accessibility and prescription volume, revenue growth is expected. The positive impact on Everest Medicines' financial outlook is evident, as NEFECON® has already been prescribed in mainland China since May 2023 and approved in Macau, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, and Singapore. The steady increase in revenue reflects the growing number of patients benefiting from NEFECON®'s innovative mechanism and clinical benefits.

The inclusion of NEFECON® in the NRDL is projected to generate substantial cost savings for patients and the healthcare system. With approximately 5 million IgAN patients in China and over 100,000 newly diagnosed patients annually, the increased accessibility of NEFECON® is expected to reduce the financial burden on patients and improve adherence to the treatment.

In conclusion, NEFECON®'s inclusion in China's National Reimbursement Drug List is a pivotal moment for IgAN patients, healthcare providers, and the market. This innovative therapy brings improved accessibility, affordability, and clinical benefits to patients, while driving revenue growth for Everest Medicines. The positive impact on patients' lives and the broader healthcare system underscores the importance of continued investment and innovation in this field.