Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. and APP Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced the commercial launch of Gemcitabine HCI for Injection in 200 mg and 1 g single dose vials, the generic version of Gemzar, in the United States, pursuant to a commercialization, manufacture and supply agreement signed by the two companies. Annual sales of Eli Lilly and Company's Gemzar were approximately $785 million in the United States in 2010, based on IMS sales data.

Under the agreement, APP will manufacture Gemcitabine HCI for Injection and will receive a license from Teva to market the product within Teva's 180-day exclusivity. In return, Teva will receive a royalty during the manufacturing term.

Tim Crew, senior vice president, Commercial Operations - Generics, commented: “We are pleased to enter into this agreement with APP, which allows us to accelerate the availability of this important generic product. This agreement is another example of Teva's commitment to providing consumers with access to high-quality, affordable medicines.”

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. is a leading global pharmaceutical company, committed to increasing access to high-quality healthcare by developing, producing and marketing affordable generic drugs as well as innovative and specialty pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients.