Teva launches generic version of Astellas' Adenoscan

JERUSALEM — Teva Pharmaceutical Industries has become the first to launch a generic drug for treating certain heart patients, the company said.

Teva announced the launch of adenosine injection, a generic version of Astellas Pharma's Adenoscan. The drug is used in combination with thallium-201 in patients undergoing myocardial perfusion scintigraphy who are unable to exercise adequately.

Adenoscan had sales of $65 million during the 12-month period ended in June, according to IMS Health. As the first company to file for approval of the generic, Teva has 180 days in which to market the generic exclusively, according to Food and Drug Administration regulations.