Tillotts Pharma AG (Tillotts), part of the Japanese Zeria Group, is pleased to announce the recent launch of Octasa 1600 mg (mesalazine) delayed-release tablets as first-line treatment for moderately active ulcerative colitis (UC) in Canada.

The expansion of the Octasa family in Canada with the launch of Octasa 1600 mg represents an important step in the strategic partnership of Tillotts Pharma AG with Pendopharm and a milestone for both organizations.

The introduction of Octasa 1600 mg (mesalazine) delayed-release tablets to the Canadian market is expected to increase the options for UC patients managed with mesalazine.

Adrian Hill, Global Head of Commercial Operations at Tillotts, said: "Tillotts has a longstanding history of more than 40 years in delivering mesalazine formulations for the treatments of patients suffering from UC, and I am very excited about the opportunity to strengthen our commercial presence in Canada by launching Octasa® 1600 mg tablet as a new high strength mesalazine tablet treatment option. This has been achieved through the solid strategic partnership between Tillotts and Pendopharm."

Jad Isber, Vice President and General Manager at Pendopharm, added: "Earlier this year, we announced the launch of Octasa® 800 mg, and we are delighted to continue our strong relationship with Tillotts by bringing Octasa® 1600 mg to Canadian patients suffering from moderately active ulcerative colitis. The addition of Octasa® 1600 mg to our portfolio will further enhance Pendopharm’s leadership position in gastroenterology, bringing a new treatment option to healthcare professionals and patients."