Hikma launches generic injectable version of Zinecard

Hikma Pharmaceuticals has launched a generic injectable product to counter a shortage in the US market for products to counter heart problems associated with commonly prescribed chemotherapy drug.

Hikma's US subsidiary West-Ward Pharmaceuticals has launched dexrazoxane for injection, the generic equivalent to Zinecard, in 250mg and 500mg vials.

Dexrazoxane for injection can be given to reduce the occurrence and severity of cardiomyopathy in women with metastatic breast cancer who are being treated with doxorubicin and who are continuing to receive the chemotherapy drug to maintain tumor control.

Dexrazoxane is not used with the initiation of doxorubicin therapy.

US sales of dexrazoxane for injection in doses of 250mg and 500mg were approximately $15m in the 12 months ending February 2018, according to IQVIA.

Hikma's injectables chief Riad Mechlaoui said: “We are very pleased to be adding Dexrazoxane for Injection to our oncology portfolio. By launching Dexrazoxane, we hope to reduce the shortage of this product in the US market.”