Generic Gleevec launches in US

India-based Sun Pharmaceutical has launched its generic version of Novartis’s cancer treatment drug Gleevec (imatinib) in the US.

In a statement announced yesterday, February 1, Sun said it had launched its product, called imatinib mesylate tablets.

The generic received final approval from the US Food and Drug Administration in December last year.

Sun Pharma has also launched a savings card for the drug which it says will offer certain patients a savings benefit of up to $700 for a 30-day prescription.

Speaking to Reuters, Kal Sundaram, Sun Pharma’s chief executive for North America, said the generic should be on pharmacy shelves within the next few days.

“I’m expecting a steady pickup from here on,” he said.