Sandoz Launches Generic Version Of Toprol XL Tablet

Toprol XL Tablet

Sandoz introduced metoprolol succinate 50 mg extended release tablets, a generic equivalent of Toprol XL, in US.

Metoprolol succinate 50 mg ER is a beta-blocker used to treat angina, heart failure, and high blood pressure.

"We are pleased to be first to the market with a 50 milligram extended release generic version of this drug," said Bernhard Hampl, chief executive officer of Sandoz Inc. "It is a strong complement to our existing product line, which includes metoprolol succinate 25 milligram ER tablets."

According to IMS Health data, the 50 mg tablet of Toprol XL, with sales of $643 million in the U.S. for the 12 months ending April 2007, is the most widely dispensed strength of the drug.

Sandoz, a division of the Novartis group, is a global leader in the field of generic pharmaceuticals, offering a wide array of high-quality, affordable products that are no longer protected by patents. Sandoz has a portfolio of more than 840 compounds in over 5,000 forms worldwide and sells its products in more than 110 countries. Key product groups include antibiotics, treatments for central nervous system disorders, gastrointestinal medicines, cardiovascular treatments and hormone therapies. Sandoz develops, produces and markets these drugs along with pharmaceutical and biotechnological active substances and anti-infectives.

In addition to the strong organic growth in recent years, Sandoz has made a series of acquisitions including Lek (Slovenia), Sabex (Canada), Hexal (Germany) and Eon Labs (U.S.). In 2006, Sandoz employed approximately 21,000 people worldwide and posted sales of USD 6 billion.