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Astellas is committed to fulfilling its social responsibilities through its business activities as a global life sciences company, namely, to contribute toward improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products. We respect human rights through every business activity from research and development to the provision of product information. We strive to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
To fulfill Astellas’ environmental and social responsibilities across the entire supply chain, it is important for us to embed environmental, social and governance principles into our processes and decision making with respect for compliance. To achieve this goal, Astellas has formulated the Sustainable Procurement Pledge which sets out our commitment and expected commitment from our Suppliers towards our sustainability goals in 5 main pillars. We also undertake measures for sustainable procurement globally to build a sound network for business activities.
Astellas Business Partner Code of Conduct
Astellas expects its Suppliers to meet or exceed all applicable laws and regulations that are in place in the countries where Astellas and Suppliers operate. We encourage Suppliers to go beyond legal compliance by committing to meet relevant international standards and devote to continuous improvement.
The standards set forth in the Business Partner Code of Conduct are not intended to change or replace any specific contractual requirements. Rather, this Code of Conduct establishes the basic principles for business behavior which Astellas expects from its Suppliers. If Suppliers have agreed to stricter or more detailed requirements than this Code of Conduct, then we expect them to meet those contractual provisions. The Astellas Business Partner Code of Conduct is now an integral part of the Sustainable Procurement Pledge as one of 5 pillars.
The basic policy for procurement activities
To carry out procurement activities in a fair and transparent manner, it is necessary for purchasing staff to comply with the basic policy for procurement activities involving suppliers as a code for self-regulation.
Risk assessments for significant business partners
Astellas conducts a global assessment that includes an evaluation of sustainability risk in the selection process for significant business partners*, the business partners that have a particularly significant impact on Astellas’ business continuity among others. The sustainability risk assessment involves judging a risk level based on a combination of the business partner’s response to a questionnaire, external database information, a basic assessment by in-house experts on risks related to sustainability such as human rights, the environment, occupational health and safety and personal information protection, and, if necessary, the results of a local on-site audit carried out by an Astellas employee. In addition, for the environment, occupational health and safety risk assessments, Astellas' original questions are added to the questionnaire (SAQ), which has been published by PSCI (Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Initiative).
Sustainability risk assessment has started operating in Japan, North America and Europe since February 2019, and has also been deployed in South America and Asian countries. Risk assessment results and assessment processes are centralized by using a global platform. Astellas may conduct a sustainability assessment for the subcontractor depending on the business between third parties.
If Astellas identifies a risk that can be improved during the business partner selection process, it encourages the business partner to make the improvement and monitors its initiatives. Astellas does not engage in business if it identifies a critical risk and it judges the risk is difficult to be improved.
Moreover, business divisions continue monitoring risk status even after business transactions have begun and the supplier’s sustainability risk level is assessed once every two years through a questionnaire. If necessary, the assessment takes place even within the two-year period.
*Business partners that have a significant impact on Astellas’ business continuity, such as suppliers of raw materials (regardless of whether they are direct or indirect materials), outsourcing companies, pharmaceutical wholesalers and sales alliance partners.
On-site audits of suppliers
In 2020, there have been movement restrictions due to the impact of COVID-19. We conducted field survey on two companies in Japan regarding the operational status of wastewater treatment facilities, the working environment of employees, and the prevention of chemical substance exposure. In cases where items were pointed out, Astellas indicated an improvement proposal, requested a plan for corrective measures be drawn up and is currently following up on progress of the improvements based on the corrective measures plan.
Supplier diversity
Astellas encourages and welcomes a diverse supply base as part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion. This is to ensure that diverse individuals and companies are included and play a role, in our vision to turn innovative science into value for patients, irrespective of race, nationality, gender, or age. We recognize that diverse suppliers bring unique backgrounds and experiences, and these are critical contributors to our ecosystem of value.
Astellas adheres to Japan’s Subcontract Act and also has a long-standing U.S. Small Business Program that observes the guidelines established by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Astellas’ Small Business Program focuses on providing opportunities for a number of small business categories including disadvantaged businesses, women-owned, veteran-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, and Historically Under-utilized Business Zones (HUBZone) small businesses.
Astellas is expanding its diversity efforts and is formally launching the Astellas Supplier Diversity Program. These actions are being taken in accordance with Astellas’ Sustainability efforts to contribute to society and evolve into a model that inspires trust, collaboration, and creates a positive impact on communities, as well as with Astellas’ policy to provide fair and equitable opportunity to all qualified businesses to be considered potential suppliers to Astellas. This Program aims to include a broader range of traditionally excluded supplier groups, creating growth and development opportunities for these suppliers. This Program will initially focus on the United States and expand into other countries in the coming years.
The Astellas Supplier Diversity Program includes suppliers that fall under one or more of the following categories:
Our supplier diversity program is administered by Astellas Global Procurement, in alignment with our Engagement, Diversity, & Inclusion mission, and is embedded in our Procurement ways of working. If you would like to be considered for future opportunities with Astellas, please click here to contact us.
Astellas is committed to research activities to create innovative new drugs and medical solutions in compliance with applicable laws and regulations and the highest ethical standards.
Ethical considerations in research on human subjects
Astellas conducts research on human participants and research utilizing specimens and information derived from humans after appropriately obtaining the consent of the participants in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki*1 as well as the laws, regulations and guidelines of relevant countries.
For example, Astellas provides training for employees in Japan that conduct research, in areas such as bioethics, genome research and related clinical research based on a strong commitment to respecting the human rights of research participants and protecting the privacy and confidentiality of their personal information. The Astellas Research Ethics Committee has been established with internal/external experts participating in the committee to determine the ethical acceptability and scientific propriety of research plans in a fair and impartial manner. The details of the Astellas Research Ethics Committee have been released on the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare’s ethics committee reporting system website*2.
*1WMA DECLARATION OF HELSINKI – ETHICAL PRINCIPLES FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH INVOLVING HUMAN PARTICIPANTS: A statement of ethical principles for medical research involving human participants, addressed to physicians and others who are involved in medical research on human subjects.
*2For details, please visit the following website: https://rinri.niph.go.jp/
Ethical considerations in stem cells research and development
Astellas is advancing research and development activities using stem cells*3 in order to supply new treatment methods to address diseases that previously had no known treatment methods.
Astellas recognizes that concerns which need careful consideration could arise when promoting research using human stem cells. In particular, it is necessary to pay full attention to the social and bioethical issues associated with research using human embryonic stem cells (ES cells).
Based on these principles and awareness, Astellas has established its “Policy on Human Stem Cell Research and Development*4,” which sets forth the basic matters it must comply with in the course of conducting human stem cell research and development. Specifically, in all of its research and development activities involving human stem cells, Astellas will comply with the relevant laws, ordinances and regulations of the countries and regions where it undertakes these research and development activities. Moreover, we have set up the committee comprising internal and external experts, from which it will obtain oversight and advice on the ethical aspects and the scientific validity and legitimacy of these research and development activities. All research and development programs will be implemented upon investigation by the committee from an ethical and scientific standpoint. Furthermore, when establishing and using human ES cells, Astellas will take steps to satisfy the ethical standards established by the world’s major scientific authorities, including the guidelines laid out by the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.
*3Cells that can self-renew and are pluripotent
*4For details, please visit the following website: [LINK to 1.10 Policy and Positioning Hub - Policy on Stem Cell Research and Development]
Ethical considerations in human genome editing
As a leading Life Sciences company with a dedicated mission to contribute towards improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products, Astellas is at the forefront of advances in human genome editing techniques. In partnership with academic research institutes and biotechnology companies, Astellas employees and partners at sites around the world are developing innovative therapeutic approaches by combining an in-depth understanding of the underlying biology of diseases with innovative platforms and treatment modalities which includes genome editing/genome regulation.
Astellas recognizes and supports the ongoing work of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Genome Editing Consortium, European Academies' Science Advisory Council (EASAC), U.S. Pharmacopeia, International Organization for Standardization (ISO), World Health Organization (WHO), and other globally authorized organizations to develop global standards for governance and oversight of human genome editing. Astellas recognizes and supports the premise that basic and preclinical research using genome editing technologies of somatic cells and germline cells should be carried out in compliance with appropriate legal and ethical rules and oversight in order to contribute to health and welfare for patients. Also at the clinical use stage, Astellas is committed to research and development for appropriate scientific purposes in compliance with all relevant laws and guidelines. Astellas publishes its Position on Human Genome Editing on its website.*5
Animal welfare in animal testing
Astellas conducts animal testing based on its Policy on Animal Care and Use*6, which was created based on various relevant laws, regulations and guidelines related to animals such as the Act on Welfare and Management of Animals. We have established the Corporate Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee with external experts that verify the 4R Principles*7 and determine whether to conduct animal testing. All of Astellas’ animal facilities strive to ensure transparency by acquring accreditation from AAALAC international*8.
Biotechnology and biohazard control
In compliance with the World Health Organization Laboratory Biosafety Manual*9, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Biosafety Manual*10 and the U.S. National Institutes of Health Guidelines*11, as well as the laws of individual countries, Astellas handles experimental materials containing genetically modified organisms and pathogens.
Consideration for biodiversity
As set out in its “Position on Genetic Resources*12,” Astellas is committed to the conservation of biological diversity in accordance with the provisions of the Convention on Biological Diversity*13 and, when using new genetic modification techniques, handles genetic resources carefully, mindful about their impact on the environment and people’s health. Astellas also follows guidelines on the utilization of genetic resources and distribution of benefits arising out of their utilization set out in the Nagoya Protocol*14 and, when accessing the genetic resources of another country, Astellas complies with the relevant laws and regulations of the providing country and ensures the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of utilization.
Treatment of intellectual property
Appropriate protection of intellectual property is critical to addressing unmet medical needs and maintaining a competitive advantage. With this in mind, Astellas has established a Policy on Intellectual Property*15. In addition, Astellas is a signatory to the IP PACT*16, a declaration of 10 key principles affirming our strong commitment to innovation and keeping the needs of patients at the heart of IP practices.
In view of the importance of improving people’s access to health, Astellas participates in the Patent Information Initiative for Medicines (Pat-INFORMED) implemented by the World International Patent Organization (WIPO) to ensure easy access to Astellas’ patent information on medicines by health agencies tasked with the procurement of medicines in various countries. Patent information for XTANDI®, Lexiscan(TM), Gonax®, Suglat®, Tarceva® and XOSPATA® is provided in the Pat-INFORMED database.
Astellas commits to not filing or enforcing patents in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) defined by the United Nations or Low Income Countries (LICs) defined by the World Bank. Astellas also commits to considering flexibilities in licensing patents in other developing countries on a case-by-case basis, in order to address pressing health challenges, while recognizing these challenges are the shared responsibility of multiple actors, including the pharmaceutical industry*17.
Astellas conducts clinical trials to assess the efficacy and safety of new medicinal products and other treatment candidates in patients while adhering to the Declaration of Helsinki, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and applicable laws and regulations. Astellas prioritizes the protection of human rights, privacy and confidentiality of clinical trial participants’ personal information. Clinical trial protocols developed by Astellas are evaluated and approved for ethical acceptability and scientific validity by internal and external evaluation committees.
In conducting clinical trials, Astellas confirms that clinical trial participants have provided informed consent, having received a full explanation of the purpose and methods of the trial, its expected benefits, potential risks and other details. Moreover, we regularly implement education and training for employees and staff members involved in developing and operationalizing Astellas-sponsored clinical trials, and monitor medical institutions that perform clinical trials to ensure full GCP compliance.
In addition, we protect the privacy and confidentiality of the personal information of clinical trial participants by managing trial data appropriately. Periodic assessments are also conducted to ensure that any outsourced clinical trials are conducted in accordance with the same high standards.
Disclosure of information on clinical trials and trial results
Astellas is committed to transparency and disclosure of clinical trial data. Maximizing the value of clinical trial data, and putting it to good use in driving scientific advancement and increasing innovation, requires that the clinical trial data be appropriately accessible to the research community and others who might utilize it. The Policy on Disclosure of Clinical Trial Data*1 has been published on the Company website to present Astellas’ position on this matter.
Astellas registers clinical trials, posts clinical trial information, and discloses clinical trial results to public database. Astellas provides anonymized patient-level data in accordance with applicable laws and regulations through an external website*2 to those scientists and healthcare professionals requesting it in the case that a review panel consisting of third-party experts evaluates and approves the request based on scientific usefulness and scientist eligibility. In addition Astellas discloses summaries of clinical trial findings from phase 1 through 4 interventional trials after Health Authority approval of medicinal product or discontinuation of the medicinal product development so that healthcare professionals and the public can view them via the clinical trial results website(s)*3. These website(s) also give patients access to plain language summaries of trial results prepared for non-experts*3.
Early access and post-trial access to investigational therapy
Astellas has set forth its approach to supplying investigational medicines to patients for purposes other than clinical trials in its Position on Early Access and Post-Trial Access to Investigational Therapy*4.
Astellas recognizes that patients with serious, life-threatening diseases may have exhausted all of their available treatment options, may not qualify for a clinical trial and may seek access to investigational medicines. In these cases, in response to a request for investigational medicines from a primary physician, Astellas fairly and impartially evaluates whether or not the request meets the required conditions to provide early access as appropriate. Furthermore, early access programs may be established in countries where the clinical development of an investigational medicine is progressing and the medicine is targeted for commercial availability. This procedure will be implemented in accordance with the regulations of the country where early access is requested. Early access programs that require physicians to follow an approved treatment protocol are registered, if required by regulation, on ClinicalTrials.gov, the EU Clinical Trials Information System and/or local registries.
Access to Medicines Request Platform
Astellas implements access programs throughout the medicinal product lifecycle to provide patients with sustainable access to our innovative therapies. Healthcare professionals can submit a request for Astellas medicinal product on behalf of their patients using our Access to Medicines Request Platform.
Click here to access the request platform.
Patient centricity in clinical development
Astellas includes the voice of the patient in all aspects of how we develop new medicinal products and other treatments. We are listening to the opinions of patients, their families and care partners by working with patients and patient organizations.
For example:
Through these efforts, we strive to make it easier for patients and their care partners to participate in clinical trials so that we can obtain trial results with scientific significance and meaningful outcomes for patients.
Anti-doping measures
Doping is an issue closely related to abuse and misuse of medicinal products in sports. It is a serious priority for the pharmaceutical industry given that it is not only associated with a risk of inducing serious side effects, but it can also become a breeding ground for the unauthorized distribution and counterfeiting of medicinal products. Astellas is working to identify the compounds under development that have the potential to be used in doping and to prevent the misuse of those compounds.
In October 2016, Astellas made a global agreement with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to partner on the prevention of misuse and abuse of medicinal products for doping in sports which aims to contribute to the eradication of doping and improvement of public health*5.
Doping in sports relies primarily on the misuse and abuse of commercially available medicinal products, as well as compounds in development that are not as well-known or easily detected. To support WADA in its efforts to address this issue, Astellas identifies compounds solely developed by Astellas or its affiliates with the potential for sport-related doping abuse and cooperates in sharing relevant information to aid WADA in the organization’s development of detection methods for these compounds. Additionally, Astellas cooperates with WADA to minimize the risk of misuse of compounds with doping potential during clinical trials to avoid opportunities for abuse.
*5For details, please visit the following website:
World Anti-Doping Agency and Astellas Announce Global Initiative to Prevent Misuse and Abuse of Medicines for Doping in Sports
Our commitment to quality
At Astellas, our focus on quality is not just a regulatory requirement; it is the cornerstone of our commitment to turn innovative science into tangible VALUE for patients.
We believe that innovation and quality go hand-in-hand and are dedicated to exceeding the expectations of those who depend on our treatments, guided by the following fundamental principles:
Stable supply and quality control
Astellas places highest priority on ensuring robust manufacture and stable supply of safe and effective pharmaceuticals to patients. To ensure this, we have established our own standards aligned with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Good Distribution Practice (GDP) as the basis for consistently achieving high levels of quality. We apply these standards to manufacturing facilities and equipment, and to all stages from raw material procurement and storage to production and shipment.
Astellas is continuously investing in various manufacturing facilities with the aim of maintaining and strengthening stable supply. In 2020, construction of the Center for Active Ingredient for Biopharmaceuticals was completed at Toyama Technology Center. Bio-drug substances for clinical trials and commercial use are manufactured at the Center and supplied according to global standards. In addition, construction of the Third Fermentation Building has commenced. When the construction is completed, the active pharmaceutical ingredients of immunosuppressant Prograf® that suppress rejection after organ transplants will be manufactured at the facility. In Yaizu Technology Center, construction of aseptic drug product manufacturing lines which allow flexibility to manufacture not only antibodies but also new modalities requiring high-level technology in the future was initiated. In the gene therapy domain, Astellas has established plants in South San Francisco, California and Sanford, North Carolina (GMP manufacturing commenced in 2022), building capability for the in-house manufacture and supply of adeno-associated virus (AAV) drug substances, AAV products, and plasmids which provide self-sufficiency from research to the commercialization of gene therapy programs. Meanwhile, in the cell therapy domain, Astellas has established a new manufacturing base in Westborough, Massachusetts, in April 2020, strengthening our capability to manufacture GMP-compliant, cell-based drug substances and products for use in cell therapy. By constructing such in-house, state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, we aim to build a more robust manufacturing system capable of supplying high quality products going forward.
Quality audits
Astellas has quality systems for auditing both internal sites and external manufacturing and distribution partners. The risk-based auditing approach determines the sites audit frequency and intensity. Internal audits are conducted on all Astellas organizations that conduct current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) and/or current Good Distribution Practice (cGDP) activities at all points across the product lifecycle and across the supply chain, in accordance with documented policies and procedures. Quality audits are conducted for new or established external partners of Astellas. Such audits are performed to evaluate compliance with cGMP, cGDP and applicable Astellas requirements. In fiscal 2022, Astellas performed a total of 444 audits, including 31 internal audits and 413 quality audits of external partners globally.
Supply chain management structure for stable supply
Supply chains are becoming more complicated than ever due to the increase in global products and diversification of modality, along with the increase in partnerships and cooperation with suppliers. Taking these environmental changes into account, Astellas is strengthening its supply chain management globally by building a framework to centrally manage demand forecasts, inventory data and supply plans for regions all over the world, encompassing the manufacture of drug substances through to finished product supply.
Moreover, in addition to building a global logistics and distribution network to develop the functions and capabilities which flexibly meet the various needs for products, including cold chains, Astellas is advancing logistics and trade compliance, including for imports and exports, to enhance the stable supply management.
Furthermore, in the area of commercial supply chain, Astellas has established a function at three locations: Japan, the Netherlands, and the US to continuously develop the supply chain process adapting to the environment changes and strengthened the management framework in global operations.
Shared logistics for stable supply
One of the most important missions for a pharmaceutical company is to continuously improve BCP (Business Continuity Plan) and maintain and continue a stable supply of pharmaceutical products even when natural disasters occur. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare released Japanese GDP (Good Distribution Practice) Guidelines which require greater strictness with respect to ensuring quality in storage and shipment under GDP. Meanwhile, MLIT (Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism), METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry), and MAFF (Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries) are promoting “White Logistics,” an initiative aimed at addressing working style reform, driver shortages, CO2 reduction among other issues facing logistics. Under this initiative, consignors cooperate with logistics partners to implement activities for improvement and reform, and build sustainable logistics frameworks.
Under the environment changes surrounding logistics, Astellas, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Teva Takeda Pharma Ltd., Teva Takeda Yakuhin Ltd. and Nichi-Iko Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. have co-established a shared storage and joint distribution platform in Hokkaido, Japan. The platform aims to ensure a diverse and stable supply of pharmaceuticals with adequate contingency, even in the event of a large-scale natural disaster, as well as enhancing efficiency and quality management of product distribution. Astellas will continue initiatives that advance the sharing and standardization of the pharmaceutical logistics within the industry.
The joint distribution platform in Hokkaido has reduced costs. It has not only enabled us to set up a new logistics base but also has reduced the environmental burden through the reduction of carbon emissions. In recognition of these points, Astellas received the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award in 2018 for the Green Logistics Excellent Business Award.
From 2021 onward, a joint distribution center was added in Kyushu, and a system for product inventory and supply management was established at four locations in Japan.
Practice to responsible manufacturing for stable supply
A stable supply of medicines is necessary for patients to have continuous access to Astellas products. The stable supply requires minimizing the risk of accidents caused by manufacturing. Some drug substances, which are active pharmaceutical ingredients, are synthesized through multiple chemical reactions. As a result, chemical reactions and associated raw materials have many inherent risks that can cause such as fires.
In order to minimize these risks during the manufacturing process, Astellas conducts assessments at the R&D stage of manufacturing for each drug substance whether there are any risks of accidents such as unusual reactions and fires caused by uncontrolled chemical reactions and static electricity discharge. For example, we understand the decomposition starting temperature of all chemical substances used in the manufacturing and the calorie generated by chemical reactions. In addition, we design proper manufacturing equipment that prevents fires. In these ways, we continuously improve our manufacturing processes to make them safer and finalize the processes to deliver VALUE to patients.
This practice is important to ensure that patients have continuous access to Astellas products and treatments through our efforts to create a stable supply via responsible manufacturing practices.
Measures to prevent medical malpractice and to improve the distinguishability of pharmaceuticals
Astellas strives to supply products from the users’ perspective to ensure that healthcare professionals and patients do not mistake one pharmaceutical for another. We are working to prevent medical malpractice in this respect, through measures including printing product names directly on capsules and tablets, as well as printing product names and dosage on packaging sheets (blister sheets) so that the product name and dosage can be easily identified even after the blister sheet is split apart.
To prevent misreading of labeling on blister sheets, Astellas also endeavors to make products easier to identify visually by adopting easily discernible colors and font types for the blister sheets of certain products. We also adopt blister card packaging*1 for pharmaceuticals that require care with dosage frequency from the perspective of preventing medical malpractice. For example, Evrenzo® 20 mg / 50 mg / 100 mg tablets newly launched in 2019 are packaged in a set of three tablets in order to prevent taking more or less than the required dosage of three times per week. The size, color and labeling design are also differentiated to reflect the dosage size, to prevent taking the wrong tablet.
In addition, to improve patients’ medication compliance and ease of swallowing, Astellas is also reducing the size of the tablet and changing the formulation. For example, the XTANDI® 40 mg (10.1 mm dia.) / 80 mg (17.2 mm dia.) tablets launched in 2018 were smaller than the previously released XTANDI® 40 mg (21 mm dia.). Moreover, as the number of tablets per dose is expected to be reduced, it will also reduce patients’ burden when taking medications.
*1Blister card packaging: Plastic packaging formed to fit the shape of the product.
Introducing universal design into product packaging
We have introduced universal design to certain product packaging. For example, the universal design packaging of Bonoteo® 50 mg tablets, which is administered once every 4 weeks, features packaging with good openability. To prevent patients from forgetting to take the drug, there is an area provided on the packaging to write the day when the drug should be taken. A small sticker to be used on a calendar is also attached. In addition, the packaging uses a universal design font type for easy reading.
FDA inspection
Astellas has established its own quality standards in compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) and applies these standards to Astellas Group manufacturing sites.
History of product recall
FY | The number of FDA Inspections |
Warning Letter Issued |
Form 483 Issued*2 | Location of Form 483 Issued |
---|---|---|---|---|
2014 | 5 | None | 1 | Takaoka (Japan) |
2015 | 4 | None | 2 | Norman (US)*1 Takaoka (Japan) |
2016 | 2 | None | 1 | Toyama (Japan) |
2017 | 2 | None | 1 | Toyama (Japan) |
2018 | 3 | None | 1 | Takaoka (Japan) |
2019 | 2 | None | 1 | Toyama (Japan) |
2020 | 2 | None | None | None |
2021 | 0 | - | - | - |
2022 | 0 | - | - | - |
2023 | 1 | - | 1 | Yaizu (Japan) |
2024 | 1 | - | - | Toyama (Japan) |
*1The Norman plant in the U.S was transferred to Avara Norman Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. in August 2016.
*2Form 483: An FDA Form 483 is issued to firm management at the conclusion of an inspection when an FDA investigator(s) has observed any conditions that in their judgment may constitute violations of the Food Drug and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act and related Acts.
Quality manual
Astellas has set forth the quality assurance function and activities in the Quality Manual. The Quality Manual sits on the apex of the document management system hierarchy. Underneath the Quality Manual, policies, standard operating procedures, and guidelines exist defining quality assurance systems, operational management and procedures for a variety of quality assurance-related activities at the global, regional and national levels. Education and training programs are implemented to promote understanding and awareness of these matters.
These documents are revised periodically and as necessary. We respond swiftly to developments in the external environment, such as regulatory changes and amendments through an established Regulatory Intelligence system.
Strengthening of quality assurance systems at affiliates
Astellas has developed a robust global quality assurance system so that it can ensure patients worldwide a supply of uniformly high quality of pharmaceuticals. This quality management system was developed to be consistent with our quality policy on a global, company-wide basis. The organizational structure of the global quality assurance system incorporates the quality assurance activities of all Astellas affiliates. Our sales affiliates globally receive ongoing support in strengthening our quality culture whilst educating our personnel to the highest standards.
Efforts toward environmentally-friendly manufacturing through collaboration with manufacturing subcontractors across-globe
Astellas is developing environmentally-friendly pharmaceutical manufacturing processes not only for patients, but also for a sustainable society coexisting with communities and nature. The chemical synthesis of drug substances, which are active pharmaceutical ingredients, generally involves the use of environmentally hazardous substances, like organic solvents. Astellas is evaluating the environmental effect of drug-manufacturing processes and taking necessary measures in order to minimize impact.
Recently, Astellas started collaborating globally with subcontractors at the early-stage development of manufacturing processes. In addition, we have also started working on several activities together with our subcontractors to evaluate and reduce environmental impact. These include: sharing our environmental standards, understanding their Environment, Health & Safety policies and manufacturing processes in detail, examining the treatment of environmentally hazardous gas and waste liquids generated during chemical synthesis, planning countermeasures for potential environmental impact. Through these collaborative activities, we are developing manufacturing processes with low-environmental impact.
Astellas strives not only to ensure the quality and stable supply of pharmaceuticals, but also to pursue environmentally-friendly manufacturing of pharmaceuticals all over the world. Through these measures, we contribute to the benefit of patients and environmental preservation on a global scale.
Relationship with local communities and consideration for the environment
To promote sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing, Astellas arranges opportunities for dialogue with local residents and communities near its manufacturing sites. By proactively disclosing its initiatives, Astellas is working to build good relationships with them.
On the premises of the Kerry Plant in Ireland, our nature reserve is a resource made available to the local community and visitors by creating public walkways and information boards, provided by Astellas, detailing the flora and fauna and biodiversity in the nature reserve.
Astellas holds an annual calendar art competition with local schools on the topics of safety, environment and energy. Funds raised from the sale of these calendars are donated to a local charity. Each year, over 1,000 entries are received from 12 local schools.
Astellas helps in promotion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) to local schools through science and engineering talks and tours onsite and online. Astellas communicates with the local community with the publication of the quarterly Astellas Biodiversity Newsletter. This newsletter contains biodiversity information relative to the season it is published in. Astellas nurtures good community relationships through integration with and the support of many other local interest groups such as a local nursing home, local Men’s Shed Association, Tidy Towns committee, National Park Education Centre, local bee keepers and local bird and bat conservation groups.
One of industry’s biggest challenges is to develop manufacturing processes that do not unnecessarily burden the environment and to develop sustainably within the local community. The efforts made by Astellas to meet the highest manufacturing standards for our life saving drugs, but also the requirement to do so sustainably limiting our impact on the environment have not gone unrecognized. Since April 2020, the Kerry plant has won SEAI*3 award under the category of Energy Team of the Year.
*3SEAI: Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland is an Irish government-affiliated organization supporting the reduction of CO2 emissions.
Complying with laws and regulations and upholding high ethical standards
Ensuring proper use
Astellas’ Medical Representatives (MRs) provide information on appropriate usage based on on-label information to healthcare professionals to ensure that Astellas pharmaceutical products are used safely and effectively. In promotion of Astellas products, MRs act with high ethical standards and strictly comply with applicable laws and regulations, industry codes and company policies including the Astellas Group Code of Conduct.
Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) engage with healthcare professionals to exchange scientifically based information to advance their understanding and the safe and effective use of our products in patient care. MSLs also act with high ethical standards and provide reliable, clear, fair, balanced and unbiased medical and scientific information. MSLs refrain from promotion of products, and observe high ethical standards, making compliance their top priority.
Responding to inquiries
Astellas has a responsibility to provide truthful, balanced and unbiased medical information in response to inquiries regarding our products. By fulfilling this responsibility, Astellas supports the safe and effective use of our products.
In countries throughout the globe, we have Medical Information Call Centers that respond to a variety of inquiries. In our larger call centers, we have systems that allow for 24-hour responses to urgent inquiries, even on business holidays.
Astellas makes continuous efforts to improve its medical information services, with the aim of providing accurate, appropriate and consistent information. As part of these efforts, a global medical information system is used to receive inquiries for information and document medical responses from group companies around the world. This allows us to respond to inquiries in a simple, swift and accurate manner. At the same time, we can analyze feedback from patients and medical professionals and communicate these insights to support the life cycle management of our products.
We have recently implemented new regional medical information web portals for HCPs to allow for additional and direct access to information regarding our products.
Anti-counterfeiting activities
The infiltration of counterfeit/falsified medicines into the legitimate supply chain not only leads to the loss of opportunities for patients to receive effective medical treatment but could also pose severe adverse health consequences. This has become a serious problem worldwide.
Astellas has published a clearly defined Counterfeit/Falsified Medicines Position Statement*1 on our global website.
As an anti-counterfeit measure, Astellas commissioned a formal Committee comprised of leaders from multiple stakeholder functions (quality assurance, supply chain, etc.), and has also established a product security function to oversee daily activities relevant to product-related security risks. These entities monitor the global market for suspicious activities affecting Astellas products, and implement countermeasures targeting not only counterfeit/falsified medicines, but also diversion, theft and other illicit activities that potentially affect our products and/or present a potential risk to patients. Astellas systematically introduces anti-counterfeit measures, including, but not limited to, product serialization as stipulated by current regulations and pharmaceutical laws.
In addition, Astellas regularly engages in various collaborative activities with other members of the pharmaceutical industry to help prevent the spread of counterfeit/falsified medicines. We also proactively support and cooperate with national regulatory and judicial authorities in the prevention of counterfeit/falsified medicines.
*1For details, please visit the following website: Policy and Positioning Hub - Position on Counterfeit/Falsified Medicines
Product recalls
Astellas has a recall system in place that is activated when the safety, efficacy or quality of a product is brought into question. The system ensures relevant information is promptly passed on to medical institutions and other affected parties and that a recall of the product in question is instigated.
History of product recall
FY | The number of recall |
Severe
(Class I) |
Moderate (Class II) | Mild (Class III) | Non Classified |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
2014 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
2015 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
2016 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
2017 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
2018 | 7 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 1* |
2019 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
2020 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
2021 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
2022 | 0 | - | - | - | - |
2023 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
2024 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
*Authority-initiated recall
Improving the Pharmacovigilance (PV) System
Astellas is continuously improving its pharmacovigilance (PV) system by strengthening collaboration between its PV function and other relevant functions, affiliates and licensing partners. This is to respond to expansion of product strategies and advance the provision of trustworthy product information and proper product use, along with compliance with regulatory requirements.
Astellas has been building a system to collect product safety information from a variety of sources. The Company annually provides product safety awareness training not only to staff closely involved with the PV function but also to all employees and contractors including affiliate staff, to maintain and strengthen swift and appropriate collection of product safety information. For external service providers outsourced by functions other than the PV function, Astellas adds requirements for the collection of product safety information in their contracts as necessary.
Astellas is exploring utilizing real-world data such as large healthcare databases for evaluation of its product safety to help minimize risk by enhancing collaboration between PV and other functions. Furthermore, Astellas continues to explore automation technologies and artificial intelligence technologies that can be used for monitoring, intaking, processing and reporting of product safety information, and early identification and analysis of safety signals. We plan to use these technologies to strengthen our PV system.