Watson subsidiary receives FDA approval for generic beta-blocker

MORRISTOWN, N.J. A subsidiary of Watson Pharmaceuticals has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration for metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets USP in the 25-mg and 50-mg strengths.

Watson Labs said metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets are the generic equivalent to AstraZeneca's Toprol XL tablets. Metoprolol succinate extended-release is a beta-blocker used to treat angina, heart failure and high blood pressure. Watson intends to launch the product immediately.

Toprol XL 25-mg and 50-mg and its generic equivalents had annual sales of approximately $628 million for the twelve months ended June 2009, according to IMS sales data.