New Products

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.

HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. — Combos is slated to launch its newest snack.

Combos 7 Layer Dip Tortilla combines real cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, tomato, refried beans, onion and spicy jalapeño peppers, parent company Mars said. As part of the upcoming launch, the new Combos treat will be supported by a campaign that will include national print advertising, digital media, promotional radio, social media, a "7 Layer Party" public relations campaign, a Six Flags sponsorship with in-park media and in-store consumer promotions.

ALLEGAN, Mich. — Perrigo on Wednesday announced that it has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration for its abbreviated new drug applications to market over-the-counter nicotine polacrilex mini lozenge USP in both 2-mg and 4-mg strengths. 

The mint-flavored mini lozenge is comparable with GlaxoSmithKline's Nicorette Mini Lozenge and is indicated to reduce withdrawal symptoms, including nicotine craving, associated with quitting smoking.

Manufacturers are striving to jazz up the bath and body segment with new, spa-inspired fragrances and formulations as sales show a ho-hum attitude among 
beauty shoppers. 


According to data provided by SymphonyIRI Group, sales of bath fragrances/bubble bath rose about 3% for the 12 weeks ended Aug. 12 at food, drug and mass (excluding Walmart). During that same period, sales of body scrubbers/massagers declined 5%, as sales of liquid body wash also dropped about 5%.


GLENVIEW, Ill. — Planters NUT-rition brand has entered the peanut butter category. NUT-rition peanut butter is nutrient-dense and a good source of energy, providing 6 g to 7 g of protein per serving and, depending on variety, at least five vitamins and minerals. The products have 0 g of trans fat per serving. The line — which includes Cinnamon Raisin Granola Nut, Banana Granola Nut and Berry Nut flavors — is available nationwide in 12-oz. jars, with a suggested retail price of $3.49 
to $3.99.

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.

SUPPLIER NEWS — A remedy for odors that lurk in trash cans has entered the market. Trash Dash, a new item marketed under the BestAir brand, is a sodium bicarbonate-based product that is designed to enhance indoor air quality and add a fresh scent to trash or recycling containers by absorbing odors. Available in citrus burst or lavender vanilla scents, BestAir Trash Dash is available in 8-oz. containers and carries a suggested retail price of $3.99 
to $4.49.


PARSIPPANY, N.J. — Duncan Hines has introduced limited-edition flavors under its Frosting Creations line.

Evoking traditional, nostalgic holiday flavors and aromas, Duncan Hines already has introduced apple pie and pumpkin spice flavors to the market, followed by the debut of peppermint stick and gingerbread flavor mixes on Nov. 1.