Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (WPI), an integrated global specialty pharmaceutical company, said that its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for morphine sulfate extended-release capsules USP, the generic equivalent of Actavis' Kadian has received United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) marketing approval.

Kadian is indicated to manage moderate to severe pain that continues around-the-clock and is expected to last for an extended period of time. Watson has started shipping the product.

According to IMS Health data, the most recent twelve months ending September 30, 2011, Kadian had sales of approximately $275 million.