New Products

DEERFIELD, Ill. — The Food and Drug Administration has postponed the time it will decide whether or not to approve an experimental treatment under development by Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. for ulcerative colitis, the company said.

WHIPPANY, N.J. — Thanks in part to the launch of Alka-Seltzer Fruit Chews, the Alka-Seltzer brand has experienced a resurgence within the antacid tablet category. Brand sales are up 422.4% to $7.2 million for the 52 weeks ended Oct. 6, according to IRI data across total U.S. multi-outlets.

Overall, sales of intimacy health products are down slightly. Sales of condoms are down 2.1% to $382.6 million, according to IRI for the 52 weeks ended Oct. 6 across total U.S. multi-outlets. Personal lubricant sales were similarly down — falling 5.3% to $207.5 million. Only sales of personal massagers were up 5.6%, but on a relatively tiny base of $25.7 million.

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — Whether it’s Argan oil, Moroccan oil, jojoba oil or another type of oil — there’s no denying that hair oils are hot. These nourishing oils promise to deeply penetrate hair to restore health and shine.

HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. — Mars will launch a new M&M flavor in May, M&M’s Brand Birthday Cake Chocolate Candies. The flavor “symbolizes family celebrations, so we think it’s a great fit with our M&M’s brand,” said Larry Lupo, Mars Chocolate North America’s VP sales for convenience and drug channels. The milk chocolate infused with birthday cake flavored candies will be available in a 1.4-oz. single pack for $1.09 and an 8-oz. stand-up-pouch for $2.99.

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new treatment made by Danish drug maker Novo Nordiskfor a rare, genetic bleeding disorder, the agency said Monday.

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new drug made by United Therapeutics for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, the company said Monday.

The FDA approved Orenitram (treprostinil) extended-release tablets for treating certain PAH patients to improve exercise capacity. PAH is a disease in which abnormally high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs causes the right side of the heart to work harder than normal, according to the National Library of Medicine.

BRIDGEWATER, N.J. — A federal court decision paves the way for Amneal Pharmaceuticals and its South Korean partnering company to market a drug for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease, the companies said Monday.