Lupin launches exclusive generic version of Ranexa heart drug in US

Pharmaceuticals manufacturer Lupin said it has launched an exclusive generic version of Gilead Sciences’ heart drug Ranexa in the US.

Ranolazine ER, to be sold in 500mg and 1000mg tablets, is indicated for the treatment of chronic angina or chest pain.

“Products like Ranolazine bring significant savings to US consumers and are a key part of our vision to bring exclusive high quality, affordable medicines to market,” said Nilesh Gupta, Managing Director, Lupin Limited.

Ranolazine ER Tablets in the two dosages had an annual sales of approximately USD 945 million in the US according to IQVIA MAT, the company said.

At close to a billion, the annual sales of the drug makes it bigger than most drugs in the market.

“This is a meaningful product and further strengthens our portfolio of generic products in the US,” Gupta said. “Launching exclusive and semi-exclusive generics is an important stepping stone as we transition to more complex generics.”

Lupin develops and distributes generic formulations, biotechnological products and APIs worldwide.

The drug maker holds the top spot in the Anti-TB segment, in addition to being a significant player in the Cardiovascular, Asthma, Pediatric, CNS (Central Nervous System), GI (Gastrointestinal), Anti-infective, NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and Diabetology segments.

According to Bloomberg, Lupin is the 8th largest generic pharmaceutical company in terms of revenue, globally.

The company made total sales of Rs 155 billion and net profit of Rs 13.93 billion during the 2018 financial year.