Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Pharmaceuticals
June 7, 2010

Otsuka Pharmaceutical to Introduce 1,300 iPad™ Units for Use as Multifunctional Pharmaceutical Information Tools

Tokyo, Japan - Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan; President: Taro Iwamoto) today announced the introduction of 1,300 multifunctional iPad™ units, to be distributed to all MR (medical representatives) for use in providing pharmaceutical product information. The iPad units will be used to display specific product information for one-on-one presentations for medical professionals and as personal learning tools for MRs, with the view of creating a network for Otsuka Pharmaceutical MRs in Asia, North America and Europe that will give them constant access to the most up-to-date information.
Introduction of the iPad units will be implemented in cooperation with SoftBank Group, creating a communications environment to ensure efficient delivery of high quality information. Introduction of the units is scheduled to begin in July 2010.

Characterized by a large screen, the lightweight iPad starts up quickly. These and other features make the iPad a convenient multifunctional information terminal, aptly suited for use in the various environments in which pharmaceutical information is provided. The introduction of the iPad units will enable MRs to deliver interactive presentations with busy medical professionals, showing visual data and video content at a touch of the large Multi-Touch screen. Network connectivity will enable them to constantly update and carry the most recent product information.

Until now, in the case of research papers or product data, information has been provided as printed material, while a range of other content was disseminated via the Otsuka Pharmaceutical website. The introduction of the iPad units will enable MRs to boost the speed and quality of information delivery. Plans are also being formulated to use the iPads as tools to permit simultaneous sharing of information on a global scale.

"Amidst the changing environment for provision of pharmaceutical information, expectations for speed and quality of information are constantly on the rise. The ability to instantly provide accurate information appropriate for each patient's treatment needs is one of the primary missions of a pharmaceutical company.' said Dr. Taro Iwamoto, President and Representative Director of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. "The iPad will function as a tool to help us achieve this mission, enabling us to gather and provide the most up-to-date, appropriate information to contribute to treatment of patients worldwide."

Based on its corporate philosophy of 'Otsuka-people creating new products for better health worldwide,' Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is dedicated to contributing to the health of people around the world.

Overview of iPad Introduction

  • *iPad is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.