Pfizer Receives FDA Approval for OTC Nexium
Pfizer reports that FDA has approved over-the-counter Nexium® 24HR (exomeprazole 20 mg), a drug to treat heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Pfizer acquired exclusive global rights to market non-prescription Nexium from AstraZeneca in 2012.
“Switching medicines, whenever appropriate, from prescription to non-prescription status improves access, empowers consumers to care for their own health, and is an important strategy for Pfizer,” said Paul Sturman, President, Pfizer Consumer Healthcare, in a press statement. “The FDA approval of Nexium® 24HR is a significant milestone in executing against our plan.”
Pfizer said it will continue to work closely with AstraZeneca and retail partners to make Nexium® 24HR available to consumers in the United States with other markets in Europe expected to follow this year.
Prescription Nexium, marketed by AstraZeneca, is one of the AstraZeneca’s top-selling drugs with 2013 revenues of $3.82 billion.
Source: Pfizer