Lupin inches up on drug launch in US

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, launched the drug after recieving the FDA nod on its generic Gatifloxacin Ophthalmic Solution 0.5%, earlier.

"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.

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.

At 12:14pm, Lupin shares were trading at Rs 860.10 on the NSE, up 1% from its previous close.