Ranbaxy discontinues arthritis drug

Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd on Tuesday said it has decided to discontinue all its 'Valdecoxib' formulations with immediate effect from Indian markets.

The company's decision to discontinue 'Valdecoxib' formulations from Indian markets follows drug's originator Pfizer suspending sales of its arthritis drug 'Bextra' (Valdecoxib) in the United States.

Pfizer had withdrawn the drug on account of US FDA view that the overall risk versus benefit profile of the drug was unfavourable.

The company has further announced that all patients presently consuming company's 'Valdecoxib' formulations, sold under the brand name 'Creval', should consult their physicians for alternate and appropriate medications, treatment options, a company statement said.