Sandoz launches generic rosacea drug

PRINCETON, N.J. — Sandoz has launched a generic topical drug for rosacea, the drug maker said Tuesday.

Sandoz, the generics division of Swiss drug maker Novartis, announced the launch of metronidazole 1% topical gel, calling it the first generic version of Galderma Labs' Metrogel. The drug is indicated for treating inflammatory lesions of rosacea, estimated to affect about 16 million Americans.

Metrogel had sales of about $110 million during the 12-month period that ended in April, according to IMS Health.