Launch

Wockhardt to Launch Anti-epileptic Injection in the US

Wockhardt USA Inc currently markets 22 products in the US

Pharmaceutical and biotechnology major, Wockhardt, received tentative approval from the US FDA for marketing Fosphenytoin injections containing 50 mg Phenytoin equivalents/ml. This injectible is used for treating complicated forms of epileptic seizures, where oral medicines cannot be administered.

Wockhardt USA Inc, the US subsidiary of Wockhardt, will be launching the Fosphenytoin in the US, on August 6, 2007; a day after the patent expires on August 5. Fosphenytoin is the generic name for the brand Cerebyx, sold in the US by Eisai Inc and Pfizer. As per IMS, the US market for Fosphenytoin injection is about $73 million. Says Habil Khorakiwala, Chairman, Wockhardt, "Fosphenytoin will be our third product to be launched on day-1 after patent expiry. It is a very significant addition to our sterile portfolio for the US market. With six injections being marketed by us, our varied portfolio will enable us to expand our presence in the US." Wockhardt USA Inc currently markets 22 products in the US. The Fosphenytoin injections are manufactured at the US FDA certified formulation plant at Waluj, Maharashtra. This product was developed in-house.

EH News Bureau