Sandoz gets OK for authorized generic of Famvir

PRINCETON — Sandoz has introduced an authorized generic version of a herpes treatment made by parent company Novartis, the company said Thursday.

Sandoz announced the launch of famciclovir tablets, an authorized generic of Famvir, used to treat genital herpes and cold sores in patients with healthy immune systems, and to treat shingles and herpes simplex infections of the skin and mucosa in patients with HIV.

Authorized generics are branded drugs sold under their generic chemical names at a reduced price, often through third-party companies.

Famciclovir had sales of about $198 million during the 12-month period ended in January, according to IMS Health. The last of the patents covering Famvir expire in 2016, according to Food and Drug Administration data.