Cobalt files with FDA for generic Crestor

WASHINGTON Cobalt Pharmaceuticals has filed for a generic version of AstraZeneca’s cholesterol drug Crestor with the Food and Drug Administration, according to Bloomberg.com.

Cobalt, a Canadian company, is trying to sell the generic before two patents expire on the drug. AstraZeneca has 45 days to file a patent-infringement lawsuit that would stop an approval for 30 months.

Crestor brought in more than $2 billion for the company last year, making it the company’s third best selling product. “AstraZeneca is evaluating Cobalt’s allegations and certifications,” said the U.K. company.