Ranbaxy unveils cholesterol drug in South Africa

NEW DELHI: Ranbaxy Laboratories has launched its cholesterol lowering drug atorvastatin, the generic version of the world’s best selling drug Lipitor in South Africa. “Ranbaxy is the first generic company to launch a generic atorvastatin in South Africa,” the Gurgaon-based company said. The company will sell the drug in 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg dosages under the brand Lipogen. At present, the market size of atorvastatin in South Africa is estimated at $26 million.

Pfizer also sells a generic version of Lipitor in 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg strengths in South Africa. Lipitor has global sales of about $13 billion.

In 2008, Ranbaxy Laboratories and Pfizer entered into an out of court settlement allowing Ranbaxy to launch its drug on different dates in several countries, including South Africa. Last month, Ranbaxy launched its drug in Canada. In the US, it can launch its drug in November 2011.

Ranbaxy Laboratories shares closed at Rs 415.85 at the Bombay Stock Exchange, down 1.61%.