Ranbaxy targets $2b US sales from generic brands

Pharma major Ranbaxy Laboratories is expected to mop up nearly $2 billion in sales by launching generic versions of four block-buster drugs, including atorvastatin (Lipitor) over the next five-six years.

The block-buster molecules including atorvastatin (lipitor), pioglitazone (actos), valacyclovir (valtrex) and tamsulosin (flomax), are expected to be launched in US during 2007-2012, subject to the requisite legal and regulatory approvals.

At present, the company has 20 First-to-File (FTF) products that command a market size of over $26 billion (at innovator brand prices) with nine under litigation. The first-to-file status is granted to the first generic company which files the abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) with a Para IV certification. The first-to-file benefit allows 180 days of exclusivity in the US market to the company.