Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.’s (TEVA) generics business has been performing below expectations over the past few quarters. Second quarter 2013 generics business sales in the U.S. were soft with revenues declining 8% to $970 million. Lower sales of generic Lexapro, no royalties on generic Lipitor and lower sales of generic Avapro led to the decline in revenues.
However, Teva expects the generics business to pick up in the second half of the year. 20-25 generic product launches are slated for 2013. The company announced two exclusive product launches in the U.S. in September – the first being its generic version of AbbVie’s (ABBV) cholesterol management treatment, Niaspan (niacin extended-release) tablets (500, 750, and 1000 mg) and the second being its generic version of Adenoscan (adenosine injection), which is marketed by Astellas (ALPMY).
Adenoscan is used as an adjunct to thallium-201 myocardial perfusion scintigraphy in patients unable to exercise adequately.
With Teva being the first to file for both products, the company will enjoy 180 days of marketing exclusivity. As per IMS data, as of Jun 30, 2013, Niaspan annual sales were approximately $1.12 billion in the U.S. Meanwhile, Adenoscan annual sales as of Jun 30, 2013, were about $65 million in the U.S., as per IMS data.
The launch of generic Niaspan is one of the most important generic product launches at Teva this year and should boost the performance of the generics business. Teva currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). The company is going through a tough transition period given fewer large generic opportunities, potential new competition for branded products (especially Copaxone) and a higher cost base.
However, we are encouraged by Teva’s plans to improve its position. Teva said that it intends to accelerate growth platforms, protect and expand core franchises, expand its global presence, pursue strategic deals and reduce the cost base. We expect investor focus to remain on the execution of the company’s new strategy.
At present, companies like Actavis, Inc. (ACT) look well-positioned with a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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