South Korean pharmaceutical companies are intensifying competition in the generic drug market for Brivelast (brivaracetam), a treatment for epilepsy. Several firms have recently launched or received approval for their versions of the medication, following the decision by UBC Pharmaceuticals to withdraw from the Korean market.
On February 24, 2026, Samjin Pharmaceutical announced the launch of BriseTam Tablet (brivaracetam) on February 22, according to The Medical Observer. Samjin Pharmaceutical successfully localized the production of brivaracetam raw materials through independent technology in 2024, establishing its own production system.
BriseTam Tablet acts on the SV2A synaptic vesicle glycoprotein in the brain, maintaining the mechanism of leviteracetam while aiming to improve upon its limitations, specifically neurological side effects and patient compliance. Clinical trial results indicated a 7.6% incidence of neurological side effects in the BriseTam group, significantly lower than the 13.9% observed with leviteracetam. Hypersensitivity reactions were as well notably reduced, from 4.2% with leviteracetam to 1.7% with BriseTam.
The company highlighted the improved convenience for elderly patients, who often experience decreased kidney function. Due to its metabolic pathway, BriseTam Tablet does not require dosage adjustments for patients with renal impairment. Data released by the company showed approximately 71.1% of patients prescribed BriseTam continued treatment for 12 months, with a high retention rate of 54.4% after five years of long-term follow-up.
Other companies entering the market include 종근당 (Chong Kun Dang) and 환인제약 (Hwanin Pharmaceutical), as reported by MediPharm Today. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has granted approvals to several companies, potentially allowing generic versions to be covered by insurance before the original drug’s domestic launch.
명인제약 (Myungin Pharmaceutical) and 현대약품 (Hyundai Pharmaceutical) have also gained approval for their brivaracetam generics, according to The Medical News. As of October 28, 2025, a total of 28 brivaracetam generic products have received approval, all produced domestically. 부광약품 (Bukwang Pharmaceutical) also launched ‘Bukwang Bripil Tablet’ in September 2025, offering various dosages for tailored treatment plans, as detailed in Newsis.
The increased competition in the brivaracetam generic market reflects the growing demand for epilepsy treatments and the potential for cost savings through wider availability of affordable alternatives. This development is likely to benefit both patients and healthcare providers in South Korea.
