June 23, 2009

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited

Takeda's Investigational Compound TAK-536 for Treatment of Hypertension Enters into Phase 3 Clinical Trials in Japan

Osaka, Japan, June 23, 2009 --- Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (“Takeda”) announced today that its investigational compound TAK-536 has entered into Phase 3 clinical trials in Japan. TAK-536 is a novel angiotensin receptor blocker (“ARB”) discovered by Takeda and its mechanism of action is to lower blood pressure by inhibiting the action of the vasopressor hormone Angiotensin II.

TAK-536 is expected to show stronger anti-hypertensive action when compared to both Blopress^® (generic name: candesartan cilexetil), which is marketed by Takeda, and also other existing ARBs on the market.

“TAK-536 is positioned to become the successor of Blopress, which is the most prescribed ARB in Japan, and we expect it will further enhance Takeda’s cardiovascular franchise,” said Nancy Joseph-Ridge, M.D., General Manager, Pharmaceutical Development Division of Takeda. “Hypertension is one of the most prevalent, modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease^[1]. We will look forward to continuing the development of TAK-536, and to providing it as soon as possible to hypertensive patients in Japan in order to better control their blood pressure.”

###

[1]K. Whelton, P., J. He, and P. Munter. "Prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension in North America, North Africa and Asia." Journal of Human Hypertension. 2004. 545-51. Web.04 Jun 2009. <>.