FDA approves Takeda's first proton-pump inhibitor with trademarked Dual Delayed Release technology

OSAKA, Japan The Food and Drug Administration has approved the first proton-pump inhibitor with the trademarked Dual Delayed Release technology for treating gastro-esophageal reflux disease, the drug's manufacturer announced.

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. made the announcement Friday with its North American subsidiary that the FDA had approved Kapidex (dexlansoprazole). The drug, a once-daily, delayed-release capsule, is used to treat heartburn associated with symptomatic, non-erosive GERD, healing erosive esophagitis and maintaining healed EE. The capsules will be available in 30 mg and 60 mg strengths.

"Through the discovery, development and commercialization of new medicines, Takeda has been a leader in acid-related therapy for more than 15 years and is committed to bringing new therapies to market," Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America CEO Alan MacKenzie stated.

Proton-pump inhibitors work by turning off acid pumps in the stomach, thus reducing production of the acid that causes GERD.