The FDA has yet to approve a generic version of Novartis AG’s blockbuster hypertension drug Diovan (valsartan), although the drug lost exclusivity Sept. 21, and the unexpected delay in competition helped to buffer Novartis’ third quarter sales. Nonetheless, Novartis is in the midst of a challenging year due to manufacturing issues that have slowed production and the launch of other generic drugs, including the first versions of a fixed-dose combination including valsartan, Diovan HCT (valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide), both of which weighed on sales.
Plus, any reprieve from the delay of generic Diovan is only temporary, and management was quick to remind investors during a third quarter conference call Oct. 25 that the impact will be felt more acutely in 2013
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