Radiopharmaceutical firm Covidien has launched a generic version of Cardiolite, the technetium sestamibi radiopharmaceutical for SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging.
The Hamilton, Bermuda-based company said that it launched the product after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its abbreviated new drug application. The branded version of Cardiolite is marketed by Lantheus Medical Imaging of North Billerica, MA, and is used in nearly 60% of the 15 million myocardial perfusion studies performed annually in the U.S., according to Covidien.
Covidien said that its generic version of Cardiolite has recently received final regulatory approval in Denmark, Germany, and the U.K.
In a statement, Lantheus said it will continue to market its branded version of Cardiolite and will not market its own generic version of the agent. The company is highlighting Cardiolite's track record in imaging 40 million patients over 17 years, as well as its support and service for the branded product.
Related Reading
Covidien sales rise in Q3, August 5, 2008
Covidien posts strong Q2, May 7, 2008
Covidien gets tentative nod for generic sestamibi, February 27, 2008
Covidien settles Medrad litigation, February 14, 2008
NRC investigates Covidien production issue, February 8, 2008
Copyright © 2008 AuntMinnie.com
