[Follow-up] HIV Drug from Yokohama Pharmaceutical University Receives US FDA Approval for Global Expansion - Japan-originated Research Becomes Global Standard

Yokohama Pharmaceutical University announced that the anti-HIV drug, based on compounds molecularly designed and synthesized by Professor Hiroshi Ohrui (Special Honorary Professor and Board Member), has reached a critical stage in its global expansion. On April 21, 2026, the drug received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), following its earlier approval and launch in Japan.

Key Points:
- HIV drug originated from Yokohama Pharmaceutical University approved by US FDA following Japan.
- Japanese university research achievements expanding to a global scale.
- Expected to become a major treatment option worldwide in the future.

What’s New:
This drug is an anti-HIV treatment based on compounds designed and synthesized by Professor Hiroshi Ohrui, featuring a unique mechanism of action different from conventional therapies. Following its commercial launch in Japan on April 15, 2026, the FDA approval on April 21, 2026, paves the way for the drug's widespread international use as a standard pharmaceutical product.

Glossary:
*1 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
The government agency in the United States responsible for reviewing the efficacy and safety of drugs and medical devices and granting approvals. FDA approval is highly influential globally and serves as a key indicator for international pharmaceutical deployment.

Reference URLs:
- Previous Press Release: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000310.000020664.html
- Reuters Report (FDA Approval): https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-fda-approves-mercks-combination-hiv-treatment-2026-04-21/
- Merck Official Announcement: https://www.merck.com/news/fda-approves-mercks-once-daily-idvynso-doravirine-islatravir/