Watson Pharmaceuticals Inc has entered into a strategic alliance with Cipla Ltd to develop, manufacture and commercialize ten generic pharmaceutical products, many of which are currently under development. The agreement also provides for the development of additional products, as mutually agreed upon by the two companies.

Cipla Ltd, the second largest pharmaceutical company in India, develops, manufactures and markets active pharmaceutical ingredients and finished dosage products. As a leading exporter, the company offers a wide range of products in India and abroad, marketing its products in over 148 countries worldwide.

Under the terms of the agreement, Watson will have exclusive United States marketing rights to all developed products and will own the regulatory filings. Following approval, Cipla will manufacture and supply products to Watson. Financial details have not been disclosed.

"This agreement with Cipla adds an additional dimension to our generic development program and is aligned with our strategy of augmenting our R&D investment through alliances with leading ex-U.S. pharmaceutical companies," said Allen Chao, Watson's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "Through this relationship, we expand our total generic product development effort to more than 40 projects. In addition, we expect to significantly increase the number of abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs), with up to 15 or more submissions expected over the next 12 months. Some of these products could be exclusive or semi-exclusive opportunities."