Actavis expands sales of generic Opana ER
Actavis starts selling generic version of Endo's pain drug Opana ER, says Endo filed lawsuit
PARSIPPANY, N.J. (AP) -- Actavis said Friday it is now selling new generic version of Endo Health's extended-release pain drug Opana ER.
Actavis Inc. said it is selling extended-release oxymorphone in five different strengths. It previously launched two other doses. The company said Endo Health Solutions Inc. has filed a lawsuit alleging that its generic infringes on Endo's patents.
Opana ER is a long-acting narcotic drug used to treat moderate and severe pain. Such medications are sometimes crushed and then injected or snorted by drug abusers to achieve a euphoric effect.
Endo's revenue from Opana ER fell 22 percent to $299 million in 2012. Early in the year the company started selling a new formulation of the drug that was designed to deter abuse. Endo asked the Food and Drug Administration to stop other companies from selling generic versions of the original formulation, but the FDA refused, saying the new formulation could still be abused.
Actavis shares fell 88 cents to $135.51 in midday trading on Friday, and shares of Endo Health Solutions lost 29 cents to $43.40.