Hospira launches generic version of antibiotic Primaxin

Lake Forest-based Hospira Inc. announced the U.S. launch of imipenem-cilastatin for injection, the first generic version of this key antibiotic to become available in the United States.

The medication, a carbapenem that belongs to the beta-lactam class of antibiotics, is a generic version of Merck's Primaxin, which had 2010 U.S. sales of approximately $140 million.

Hospira's imipenem-cilastatin will be available in 250 mg and 500 mg flip-top vials.

“Hospira's imipenem-cilastatin is our second carbapenem on the U.S. market, demonstrating Hospira's dedication to providing generic alternatives in this important category of antibiotics,” said Joshua Gordon, vice president/general manager, Specialty Pharmaceuticals, Hospira. “Hospira is committed to continuing to reduce the cost of health care by providing savings with first-to-market generic injectables.”

Last year, Hospira launched meropenem, the first generic carbapenem on the U.S. market. Carbapenem antibiotics have a U.S. market value of approximately $600 million, based on IMS Health data. Hospira already sells imipenem-cilastatin in Europe, Japan and several other countries.