What does it take to spend decades chasing one of medicine’s hardest problems while the rest of the industry walks away?
In this episode, we explore the remarkable story of Eisai, the Japanese pharmaceutical company that built its global identity around Alzheimer’s disease. From its founding during World War II and early commitment to ethical medicine, to the blockbuster success of Aricept, and finally the long, controversial road to Leqembi, Eisai’s journey is one of persistence, philosophy, and scientific conviction.
We break down how Eisai partnered with Biogen, why leadership under Haruo Naito stayed the course when others exited neuroscience, and how a Japan-based company became a global force in CNS drug development. Along the way, we examine Eisai’s approach to risk, regulation, M&A, and what its future looks like beyond Alzheimer’s.
This is a story about long-term thinking in a short-term industry and what happens when belief outlasts doubt.
🎧 Listen now, stay curious, and don’t forget to subscribe for new episodes every Thursday!
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