New Product Newswire

RxNEW GENERICS Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, Irvine, Calif., (949) 788-6700, has received FDA approval for ciprofloxacin tablets in 250-, 500-, and 750-mg strengths. The approval provides a generic alternative for Bayer's Cipro, a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Ciprofloxacin is indicated for the treatment of several types of infections, among them urinary tract infections, acute uncomplicated female cystitis, lower respiratory tract infections, chronic bacterial prostatitis, and acute sinusitis.

TEVA Pharmaceuticals USA, North Wales, Pa., (888) TEVA USA, is introducing 20-mg omeprazole delayed-release capsules, which are bioequivalent to AstraZeneca's Prilosec in the same strength. The proton pump inhibitor is indicated for short-term treatment of duodenal ulcers. It can be used also to treat gastric ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and for the maintenance and healing of erosive esophagitis.

Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals, Princeton, N.J., (609) 720-9200, holds tentative approval for levofloxacin tablets in strengths of 250, 500, and 750 mg. The broad-spectrum antibacterial agent, an alternative to Ortho-McNeil's Levaquin, is indicated for the treatment of adults over the age of 18 years with mild, moderate, and severe infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms. It is used to treat such infections as sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, nosocomial and community-acquired pneumonia, complicated and uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, chronic bacterial prostatitis, complicated and uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and acute pyelonephritis.

Combe Inc., White Plains, N.Y., (800) 873-7400, is introducing Cepacol Sore Throat from Post Nasal Drip lozenges for relief of the sore throat discomfort that can accompany postnasal drip. The lozenges will be available in cherry and menthol flavors in boxes of 18. The company has also reformulated its Cepacol Sore Throat Spray to both coat and numb irritated throat tissues. The spray will be available in cherry, menthol, or honey lemon flavor.

To eliminate nail/skin fungus on hands and toenails, Bionova Inc., Forest Hills, N.Y., (718) 897-8225, is offering QurNail, six antifungal/antimicrobial agents and five antioxidants. It kills the invading fungus, then cleans and helps heal to prevent recurring infections. A dropper applicator helps deter the cross-contamination that is possible with a surface applicator.

Two new products from Del Pharmaceuticals are now available to kill head lice.Pronto Plus Lice Killing Hair & Scalp Masque,Pronto with pro-vitamin B₅, aloe vera, shea butter, mango butter, and coconut oil, is an advanced maximum-strength lice treatment that covers the hair and washes out completely after a 20-minute application. Pronto Plus Lice Killing Warm Oil Treatment & Conditioner is a maximum-strength treatment that kills lice as warm oils soothe the scalp. It contains pro- vitamin B₅ along with jojoba, rosemary, apricot, and wheat germ oils as conditioners. Both products boast a pleasant herbal scent. Del Pharmaceuticals, Uniondale, N.Y., can be reached at (800) 645-4664.

Advil Multi-Symptom Cold combines ibuprofen with pseudoephedrine and chlorpheniramine for the relief of runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, headache, sinus pressure, and fever. The product is new from Wyeth Consumer Healthcare, Madison, N.J. For further information, call (800) 88-ADVIL.

Alimera Sciences, Alpharetta, Ga., (678) 990-5740, is introducing Soothe Emollient Eye Drops,, a multidose emollient-based artificial tear product. An advanced lipid restorative reestablishes the eye's protective lipid layer to help relieve dry eye for up to eight hours.