AKORN'S GENERIC VOLTAREN GETS TENTATIVE APPROVAL

The FDA has given Akorn tentative approval to market a generic version of Novartis' Voltaren Ophthalmic Solution, a drug used for the treatment of post-operative inflammation in ophthalmic surgeries.

Upon final approval, Akorn plans to market diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution 1 percent in 2.5-mL and 5-mL dropper bottles. Final approval is likely to come in October 2007, when the patent protection expires.

The brand drug had annual sales of about $22 million in 2005, according to Akorn.