Ranbaxy launches isotretinoin product in U.S.

Roche withdrew its isotretinoin product, Accutane, from the market in 2009, while several generic forms of the drug have remained available for the treatment of severe acne.

According to Ranbaxy, Absorica uses a patented technology allowing the drug to be taken effectively even without food. Ranbaxy states this formulation is unique and not interchangeable with other forms of isotretinoin.

Absorica is licensed from Cipher Pharmaceuticals, Mississauga, Ontario, and is indicated for the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne in patients age 12 and older.

"We are most pleased to make Absorica available as a valuable option for dermatologists and a subset of patients who suffer from severe recalcitrant nodular acne,” Ashish Anvekar, M.D., senior director, Ranbaxy Laboratories, said in a news release. “Absorica will be the flagship brand of the Ranbaxy dermatology product portfolio in the U.S." DT