Watson Pharmaceuticals receives FDA approval for generic Accuneb

Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has announced that it has received final approval from the United States (U.S.) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for albuterol sulfate inhalation solution in the 0.021% (base) and 0.042% (base) strengths.

Watson has been awarded 180 days of marketing exclusivity for being the first to file an ANDA containing a paragraph IV certification for the 0.021% (base) strength. Watson's market exclusivity will begin upon commercial launch. Watson intends to launch its albuterol sulfate inhalation product immediately.

Albuterol sulfate is the generic equivalent to Dey, L.P.'s AccuNeb(R) Inhalation Solution, which is indicated for the relief of bronchospasm in patients 2 to 12 years of age with asthma (reversible obstructive airway disease). For the 12-months ending June 2007, AccuNeb(R) had total U.S. sales of approximately $20 million, according to IMS Health data.