Ranbaxy's generic Norvasc gets initial OK

PRINCETON, N.J., June 20 (UPI) -- Ranbaxy said Wednesday the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted tentative approval of its generic version of Pfizer's Norvasc.

The branded drug, which is indicated for treating hypertension, chronic stable angina and vasopastic angina, generated annual sales of $2.79 billion.

A tentative approval means the FDA will delay final approval of Ranbaxy's generic drug until the expiration of any patents or exclusivities of Pfizer's drug.

"We are pleased to receive this tentative approval for amlodipine besylate tablets," said Jim Meehan, Ranbaxy's vice president of sales and marketing. "This product represents a future opportunity for Ranbaxy and will be launched following final approval from the FDA."