Ranbaxy launches anti-acne drug in the US market

NEW DELHI: Drug major Ranbaxy Laboratories today said it has launched Absorica capsules, used in treating acne, in the US market.

Ranbaxy Laboratories Inc (RLI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd (RLL), today announced the launch of Absorica (Isotretinoin) capsules, a product that is licensed from Cipher Pharmaceuticals Inc of Mississauga, Ontario, Ranbaxy said in a statement.

According to March 2012 IMS MAT data, sales of Absorica (isotretinoin) capsules stood at USD 400 million in the US market.

"... Absorica will be the flagship brand of the Ranbaxy dermatology product portfolio in the US," Ranbaxy Laboratories Inc Senior Director Ashish Anvekar said.

Absorica, which is indicated for the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne in patients 12 years of age and older, can be given without regards to meals, the company said.

According to an analyst, the launch of Absorica would greatly benefit Ranbaxy as there are only 2-3 players currently selling the product in the US market.

RLI, which is based in Jacksonville (Florida), is engaged in the sale and distribution of branded prescription products in the US healthcare system.

Shares of Ranbaxy were trading at Rs 497.50 on the BSE in the afternoon trade, up 0.31 per cent from its previous close.