Par distributes authorized generic of AstraZeneca hypertension drug

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. — Par Pharmaceutical Cos. has contracted with AstraZeneca to distribute an authorized generic version of a drug used to treat high blood pressure, Par said.

Par announced that it had entered a supply and distribution agreement through subsidiary Par Pharmaceutical to distribute an authorized generic version of Atacand HCT (i.e., candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide) tablets.

An authorized generic is a branded drug marketed under its generic name at a discounted price, usually through a third-party company.

Par has started shipping the drug in the 16/12.5-mg, 32/12.5-mg and 32/25-mg strengths. Atacand HCT has annual sales of aboutt $61 million, according to IMS Health.

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