Pfizer to launch new overactive bladder medication

NEW YORK Pfizer is launching a new drug for treating overactive bladder to replace one that soon will lose patent protection, according to published reports.

The New York-based drug maker will launch Toviaz (fesoterodine fumarate) in May as the March 25, 2012 expiration date for Detrol (tolterodine tartrate) approaches.

The company is using a marketing campaign in 10 cities, such as Boston and Atlanta, and including a printed support plan in samples of Toviaz, as well as reducing the sales force.

Detrol had sales of $1.2 billion in 2008, according to Pfizer financial data.