Lupin launches generic ophthalmic solution in US market

The company has 180 days of marketing exclusivity for the generic version of Allergan Inc's Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution

Drug major Lupin today said it has launched the generic version of Allergan Inc's Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution in the US market with 180 days of marketing exclusivity.

 

Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc (LPI), the company's US subsidiary, has launched its generic Gatifloxacin Ophthalmic Solution 0.5% in the US market, after having received the USFDA's final approval earlier, Lupin Ltd said in a statement.

 

"Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution 0.5% had annual US sales of around $62.3 million (IMS MAT June 2013 data). Lupin was the first applicant to file an abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) for Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution and as such will be entitled to 180 days of marketing exclusivity," the company said.

 

Gatifloxacin Ophthalmic solution 0.5%, which  is the generic equivalent of Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution of Allergan, is indicated for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis.

 

"Having received approval earlier, we are happy to now launch this product. The product is the first of the ophthalmic products that Lupin is bringing to the market and bears testimony to our continued commitment to serving our customers and patients by bringing high quality," Lupin Ltd Managing Director Nilesh Gupta said.

 

Lupin has been focusing on less competitive specialities spaces in the US market which includes segments like Oral Contraceptives, Ophthalmology and Dermatology. The Mumbai-based company has already done over 10 filings with the US FDA for ophthalmological products.

 

The company's cumulative ANDA filings with the US FDA as of June 30, 2013 stood at 177, with the company having received 86 approvals to date.

 

Shares of Lupin were trading at Rs 863.45 on the BSE in morning trade, up 1.33% from its previous close.