Watson launches authorized generic respiratory drug

PARSIPPANY, N.J. — Watson Pharmaceuticals has launched an authorized generic version of a respiratory disease drug used in children and adults, the drug maker said Monday.



Watson announced the launch of an authorized generic version of Sunovion Pharmaceuticals' Xopenex (levalbuterol hydrochloride) inhalation solution under an agreement with Sunovion. The drug is used to treat and prevent bronchospasm in patients ages 6 years and older with reversible obstructive airway disease.



An authorized generic is a branded drug marketed under its generic name, usually under an agreement between the branded drug's manufacturer and a third-party company. Xopenex had sales of about $474 million during the 12-month period ended in June, according to IMS Health.

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