Otsuka America, Inc., a subsidiary of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. has completed the acquisition of Transcend Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a rapid-acting treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This is the latest in a series of investments Otsuka has made to advance next-generation treatments for serious neuropsychiatric conditions.

Otsuka Pharmaceutical has received FDA approval for SIMTRIYO (centanafadine), the first norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin reuptake inhibitor for treating ADHD in adults and children aged six years and older weighing at least 20kg. The once-daily extended-release capsule will be available later this year following DEA scheduling. The approval is based on four Phase 3 clinical trials showing statistically significant improvements in ADHD symptoms compared to placebo, with benefits observed as early as week one. Common side effects include decreased appetite, nausea, rash, and headache. ADHD affects approximately 7 million children and 15.5 million adults in the US. The drug carries boxed warnings for suicidal ideation in pediatric patients and potential for abuse and addiction.