Generics

HUNT VALLEY, Md. — A company that manufactures simplified packaging designed to increase medication adherence has launched a new website to promote the product.

Medicine-On-Time announced the launch of a new website that connects patients to pharmacies that offer the packaging. The launch includes 250 pharmacies around the country, a number that the company expects to grow. The packaging system is geared toward patients taking multiple drugs and uses personalized pill cups labeled with the day, date and time to take them.

PITTSBURGH — Mylan has settled a patent infringement suit over a drug used to treat respiratory diseases, Mylan said.

The generic drug maker said it resolved a patent litigation suit filed by Shionogi and Cima Labs over prednisolone sodium phosphate orally disintegrating tablets, a generic version of Orapred ODT. Mylan is hoping to market its generic version of the drug in the 10-mg, 15-mg and 30-mg strengths. The drug is used to treat asthma and certain allergic conditions.

MORRISTOWN, N.J. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a generic drug for treating blood pressure and chest pain.

Actavis announced Wednesday the approval of diltiazem hydrochloride extended-release capsules.

The drug is a generic version of Valeant's Tiazac. The branded drug and its generic equivalents had sales of about $76.3 million in 2011, according to IMS Health.

WASHINGTON — An executive from CVS Caremark will guide policy for a generic drug industry trade association.

The Generic Pharmaceutical Association said Wednesday that it had appointed CVS Caremark senior director of public policy Christine Simmon to run its policy shop as SVP policy and strategic alliances, effective Oct. 24. Christine Simmon previously worked for the GPhA as VP policy, public affairs and development from 2002 to 2006.

CHICAGO — To help improve flu immunization rates in underserved communities, Walgreens and Access Community Health Network on Tuesday announced a collaboration that will provide 5,000 free flu shot vouchers to Access to help those either without health insurance coverage or those unable to afford the vaccination to get their flu shot. 

RHINELANDER, Wis. — A meeting with federal officials last week indicated that pharmacists' importance in dispensing animal drugs is growing.

Last Tuesday, pharmacists and veterinarians met with officials from the Federal Trade Commission in Washington, D.C., for a four-session meeting that affirmed pharmacists' increasing role, according to online pet supply company Drs. Foster and Smith.

PRINCETON, N.J. — Ranbaxy Labs has launched an authorized generic drug for treating dry mouth associated with an autoimmune disorder, the company said Tuesday.

The India-based generic drug maker announced the launch of cevimeline hydrochloride in the 30-mg strength under an agreement with parent company Daiichi Sankyo. The drug is used in patients with Sjogren's syndrome, which affects the moisture-producing glands.

Dr. Reddy's launches antibiotics