Launch of Allelock 0.5% Granules for the Treatment of Allergic Symptoms - New Dosage Form

Tokyo, Japan, November 15, 2011 --- Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd. ("Kyowa Hakko Kirin") started sales of "Allelock 0.5% Granules" (hereinafter referred to as Allelock Granules). Allelock Granules are suitable for ages 2 and older. This new medication can be prescribed to a wide range of patients, from small children to the elderly.

Allelock Tablets (active ingredient: olopatadine hydrochloride) were introduced to the market in March 2001 as a second-generation antihistamine that primarily functions as a selective histamine H1 receptor antagonist. For adults, Allelock Tablets have come to be known both for their high clinical efficacy against allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and itchiness caused by skin diseases and for their safety. In July 2010, the indications, dosage, and administration for the use of Allelock for children aged 7 years and older were approved, and in November of the same year, Kyowa Hakko Kirin started selling a version of Allelock that is designed to fit more comfortably into patients' lifestyles and that can be taken with little or no water: "Allelock OD Tablets" (disintegrating oral tablets).

Now that Allelock has been approved in conventional tablet form, OD tablet form, and granule form, it can do even more to help patients suffering from allergies.