International Isotopes gets FDA green light for generic sodium iodide

Hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer patients have a new generic drug treatment option. The Food and Drug Administration has cleared International Isotopes’ sodium iodide I-131.

The product is a radioactive therapeutic agent.

The American Cancer Society estimates more than 50,000 adults in the United States are diagnosed with thyroid cancer each year.

"We are very pleased to have gained FDA approval of this important pharmaceutical product, which is the only FDA approved generic product of its type manufactured in the United States. INIS has long established itself as a reliable supplier of radiochemicals and we have earned a reputation for high quality products and excellent customer service,” said Steve Laflin, International Isopoes president and CEO.

Laflin said that the company expects to launch the product into commercial distribution in the very near future.