Lupin Gets Regulatory Nod to Market Arthritis Treatment Drug in US

New Delhi: Drug firm Lupin Ltd on Monday said it has received approval from the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) to market a generic version of GD Searle LLC's Celebrex capsules, used to treat arthritis, in the American market.

The Mumbai-based company has received final approval for its Celecoxib Capsules in 50 mg strength from the US health regulator (FDA) to market a generic version of GD Searle LLC's Celebrex capsules, Lupin said in a statement.

The company has also received tentative approvals for its product in strengths of 100 mg, 200 mg and 400 mg from the FDA, it added.

GD Searle LLC's is a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc.

Celecoxib capsules are indicated for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and acute pain.

According to IMS sales data, Celebrex capsules had annual US sales of $2.44 billion.

Shares in Lupin, on Monday, ended at Rs 1,359 apiece on the BSE, down 0.74 per cent from the previous close.