Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc., an integrated global specialty pharmaceutical company, has launched an authorized generic version of Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium tablets) as part of an exclusive agreement with Pfizer Inc.  Watson began shipping the product today.  Lipitor is indicated as an adjunct to diet to reduce elevated total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides and to increase HDL cholesterol.

Under the terms of the exclusive supply and distribution agreement, Pfizer manufactures and supplies Watson with all dosage strengths of the authorized generic product. Watson markets and distributes the product in the United States. Pfizer will receive a share of the net sales from Watson's sales of the product. The agreement runs until November 30, 2016. Other terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.

For the most recent twelve months ending September 30, 2011, Lipitor had sales of approximately $7.8 billion, according to IMS Health data.