Par Pharmaceutical Companies, Inc. has entered into an exclusive US supply and distribution agreement with AstraZeneca to distribute the authorized generic version of AstraZeneca’s Atacand (candesartan cilexetil). Par has begun shipping 4 mg, 8 mg, 16 mg and 32 mg strengths of candesartan cilexetil tablets.

According to IMS Health data, annual US sales of Atacand are approximately $113 million.

Candesartan cilexetil is an angiotensin II receptor blocker indicated for the treatment of hypertension in adults and children 1 to < 17 years of age and the treatment of heart failure (NYHA class II-IV).  Candesartan cilexetil reduces cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization.

Candesartan cilexetil is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of the product. A black box warning is associated with this product regarding fetal toxicity. When pregnancy is detected, candesartan cilexetil should be discontinued as soon as possible. Drugs that act directly on the rennin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus. Refer to full prescribing information for complete boxed warnings.

Par Pharmaceutical Companies, Inc. develops, manufactures and markets high barrier-to-entry generic drugs and niche, innovative proprietary pharmaceuticals through its wholly-owned subsidiary’s two operating divisions, Par Pharmaceutical and Strativa Pharmaceuticals.