Sandoz today announced the launch of Sandoz* Valsartan and Sandoz* Valsartan-HCT, generic equivalents of Novartis’ Diovan® and Diovan-HCT^TM, in Canada.  Sandoz Valsartan is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate essential hypertension and the reduction of cardiovascular mortality in certain patients. Sandoz Valsartan-HCT is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate essential hypertension in patients for whom combination therapy is appropriate.

Sandoz Canada is proud to be leading the introduction of generic versions of Diovan® and Diovan-HCT^TM in Canada, whose total combined Canadian sales amounted to approximately CAD 210 million in 2010.

“The launch of Sandoz Valsartan and Sandoz Valsartan-HCT is yet another example of Sandoz Canada’s commitment to advancing generics in Canada, as well as Novartis’ global leadership position in both patented and generic pharmaceuticals,” said Michel Robidoux, President of Sandoz Canada. “Furthermore, this launch demonstrates our focus on continuing to advance the pipeline to bring high-quality, affordable medicines to Canadian patients as quickly as possible.”