Dr Reddy's launches OTC drug in the US market

Dr Reddy's Laboratories today said it has launched two over-the-counter (OTC) drugs used to treat seasonal allergies such as itchy nose and sneezing, in the US market.

Fexofenadine HCl and Pseudoephedrine HCl extended release tablets in the strengths of 180 and 240 mg have been released in the US market, Dr Reddy's Laboratories said in a statement.

OTC drugs can be purchased without a prescription and are commonly used to treat symptoms of common illnesses that may not require the direct supervision of a physician.

The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) had approved the Hyderabad-based firm's abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) for the tablets on June 22, 2011, it added.

"Dr Reddy's will market the product under store brand labels in the US market," the company said.

The company's product is a bio equivalent version of Sanofi Aventis' Allegra D24 Hour extended release tablets, it said.

Shares of Dr Reddy's Laboratories today closed at Rs 1,493.85 on the Bombay Stock Exchange, up 1.89% from previous close.