Another Generic Angiomax Just Launched

Another generic version of the injectable anticoagulant bivalirudin (Angiomax) has been launched by Hospira.

Like the brand-name version, Hospira’s generic bivalirudin 250 mg comes in a single-dose, flip-top vial, though the company plans to launch a different presentation of the drug in its ADD-Vantage vial.

Bivalirudin is indicated for use with aspirin in patients with unstable angina undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), those undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and patients with or at risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia or heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis syndrome undergoing PCI.

Sandoz also launched a generic version of Angiomax, following a completed supply and distribution deal with The Medicines Company.

The drug is contraindicated in patients with active major bleeding and hypersensitivity to Angiomax or its components.

In addition to bleeding episodes, bivalirudin has commonly reported adverse reactions of hypotension, hypertension, pelvic pain, and fever, among others. The drug is also associated with an increased risk of thrombus formation, which can be fatal.