China approved 48 first-in-class innovative drugs in 2024, covering nearly 20 therapeutic areas, including oncology, neurological disorders, endocrine diseases and anti-infective medicines, according to a report released by the National Medical Products Administration on Tuesday.

The report stated that 17 among the 48 novel drugs received market approval through a priority review pathway, 11 gained conditional market approval and 13 were included in breakthrough therapy programs during clinical trials.

In addition, the nation also approved 55 rare disease medicines and 106 pediatric medicines. Furthermore, 35 medications were granted expanded pediatric indications, which is expected to help alleviate the shortage of pediatric medication options, said the report.