Glenmark launches generic version of Zetia in US

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has launched the first generic version of Zetia, a drug used in treating high cholesterol, in the US market.

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc has announced the availability of ezetimibe, the first and only generic version of Merck's Zetia in the United States.

"The availability of ezetimibe is the result of a licensing partnership with Par Pharmaceutical, an Endo International plc operating company, with whom Glenmark will share profits," the Mumbai-based company said in a statement.

Glenmark and Endo will be entitled to 180 days of generic drug exclusivity for ezetimibe in the US market, it said.

Shares of Glenmark today ended at Rs 912.60 apiece on the BSE, up 0.94 per cent from previous close.