FDA Approves First Generic Versions Of Blood Pressure Drugs Avapro, Avalide

The Food and Drug Administration March 30 approved the first generic versions of Avapro (irbesartan) and Avalide (irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide) tablets for the treatment of high blood pressure.

Israel-based Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. will manufacture the generic versions of these products. Bristol-Myers Squibb, based in New York City, makes the brand-name versions.

Irbesartan is used alone or in combination with other medications, such as hydrochlorothiazide, to treat high blood pressure, FDA said. It is also used to treat kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart ...