KV Pharmaceutical Company announced that the US Food and Drug Administration approved the company's Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDA) for four strengths of Benazepril Hydrochloride Tablets. KV received approval for the 5, 10, 20 and 40 mg. tablets. Benazepril Hydrocholoride Tablets are an AB-rated alternative to Lotensin from Novartis.

Ethex Corporation was ready with the first shipments of this product when the approval was received by the company. Benazepril Hydrochloride, which is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, had 2003 annual sales of approximately $335 million and is the tenth product launch announced for Ethex Corporation during fiscal 2004.

Marc Hermelin, CEO of the company stated, "This ANDA approval for our Ethex subsidiary is the latest success from our solid and growing generic drug pipeline, and it further extends our already strong position in the generic cardiovascular category."