Teva launches generic version of Zetia in U.S.

Individuals with elevated blood cholesterol levels are at risk of developing heart disease.
Individuals with elevated blood cholesterol levels are at risk of developing heart disease. | File photo

Global generic pharmaceutical giant Teva recently released its generic version of Zetia (ezetimibe) in 10mg tablets to address total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) blood cholesterol levels for U.S. patients.

The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates that one-third of U.S. adults have high LDL cholesterol levels but that less than half are actually being treated for it. Additionally, officials said only 30 percent of those affected manage their condition successfully.

“Despite advances in the treatment of high cholesterol in recent years, many people are still living with active disease and are in need of additional generic therapeutic options,” Dipankar Bhattacharjee, Teva’s president and CEO for global generic medicines, said. “We are excited to add another strong generic to our U.S. portfolio and see potential to build on its success by leveraging our expertise in the cardiovascular area.”

Individuals with elevated blood cholesterol levels are at risk of developing heart disease, which officials called the leading cause of death in the United States.

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. is based in Israel with U.S. headquarters in North Wales, Pennsylvania. It specializes in treatment for multiple sclerosis and other central nervous system conditions as well as respiratory disorders.