Ranbaxy launches authorised generic version of Validus's Rocaltrol

Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited (RLL), has entered into an agreement with Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC to market and distribute an authorised generic version of Rocaltrol (calcitriol) in both softgel capsules and an oral liquid formulation.

Rocaltrol is used in the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism and resultant metabolic bone disease in patients with moderate to severe chronic renal failure not yet on dialysis, and in the management of hypocalcemia and the resultant metabolic bone disease in patients undergoing chronic renal dialysis, the company said in a release.

Rocaltrol is also used in the treatment of hypocalcemia and its clinical manifestations in patients with postsurgical hypoparathyroidism, idiopathic hypoparathyroidism, and pseudohypo-parathyroidism, it said.

"Ranbaxy was very pleased to be selected by Validus as their distribution partner for an authorised generic version of Rocaltrol. This product represents an excellent commercial opportunity for Ranbaxy, which will increase our visibility and presence in the US healthcare system. We look forward to a long and prosperous partnership with Validus," said Jim Meehan, vice president of sales and distribution for RPI.

Ranbaxy will launch the product immediately to all classes of trade in the US market, and expects to be the only generic company offering all forms and strengths of generic Rocaltrol.

Calcitriol softgel capsules and oral liquid had overall annual sales of $70 million in the US.

Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Inc (RPI) based in Jacksonville, Florida, USA, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited (RLL), India's largest pharmaceutical company. RPI is engaged in the sale and distribution of generic and branded prescription products in the US healthcare system.

Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited, based in Gurgaon, India, is a subsidiary of Daiichi Sankyo Company, Ltd.