Icotinib hydrochloride is an epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) indicated for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). With over 60% of NSCLC expressing EGFR, it has become an important therapeutic target in these types of cancers.

In 2002, Beta Pharma’s first oncology new drug candidate BPI-2009, icotinib hydrochloride, was identified, optimized, and chosen for further development. Taking an innovative approach to drug development, Beta Pharma partnered with investors to pursue development of icotinib hydrochloride in China for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after the failure of at least one prior platinum-based chemotherapy regimen.

In 2011, the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) granted icotinib hydrochloride marketing approval under the brand name Conmana®. Icotinib has gained over a third of the market share in lung cancer therapies in China, with over 40,000 patients treated.