Kakenyaku Kako

Kakenyaku Kako was a Japanese pharmaceutical company specializing in the development, manufacture, and sale of ethical drugs and diagnostic reagents. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Tokyo, the company established a strong presence in therapeutic areas such as cardiovascular health, gastroenterology, and metabolic diseases. Its product portfolio featured notable treatments like Carnaculin (kallidinogenase) for circulatory disorders and Gastrom (pirenzepine) for peptic ulcers. In October 2003, Kakenyaku Kako merged with Shimizu Pharmaceutical to form Alfresa Pharma Corporation, a core subsidiary of the Alfresa Holdings group. The company's legacy continues through Alfresa Pharma's integrated operations in the Japanese healthcare sector.