'JaQBo' Makes Entry into Major Hospitals, Targets GERD Market
Prescription Codes Activated at Seoul National University Hospital, Asan Medical Center
'JaQBo(zastaprazan citrate)', South Korea's 37th domestically developed new drug, is gaining traction in major hospitals across the country. Developed by Onconic Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Jeil Pharmaceutical, the potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB) was approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in April 2024 for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Since its launch in October, JaQBo has secured drug evaluation committee approvals at leading hospitals, including Seoul National University Hospital, Asan Medical Center, Severance Hospital, and Samsung Medical Center. The drug is also available at more than 60 general hospitals nationwide, including Bundang Seoul National University Hospital, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Boramae Hospital, and Busan National University Hospital.
JaQBo works by inhibiting proton pumps and blocking potassium ion binding, effectively halting gastric acid secretion. Its P-CAB mechanism allows for immediate efficacy, as it does not require activation by gastric acid, making it highly effective regardless of gastric acid levels.
The drug is completing clinical trials for gastric ulcer treatment, with plans to expand indications later this year. Clinical trials for preventing NSAID-induced gastric ulcers are also underway. To improve patient adherence, an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) formulation is set to launch in 2025.
“We are committed to expanding indications and diversifying formulations to provide more treatment options,” a Jeil Pharmaceutical spokesperson said. “We will continue to engage with experts at major gastroenterology conferences to share the latest insights and offer improved therapeutic solutions.”