Watson Discloses Challenge To Generic Eye Drug Application

Watson Pharmaceuticals Inc. (WPI) said Alcon Inc. (ACL) filed a lawsuit to challenge its application for a generic version of an eye antibiotic.

Units of Alcon on Thursday sought to stay Watson's commercialization of its Vigamox eye drops until its patents on the treatment expire. Watson has filed an abbreviated new drug application for the eye solution with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Watson has seen strong sales of its generics as consumers remain cautious about spending. The company also has a stable of branded drugs focused on urology and women's health.

The latest suit filed in Delaware's U.S. district court will stay final FDA approval of the generic application until the challenge is resolved or until September 2013, whichever comes first.

Vigamox is an antibiotic solution for bacterial conjunctivitis, or inflammation in the eyelids.

Alcon shares were up 1.4% to $170.70 in premarket trading and are up 5.3% in the past 12 months. Watson shares closed at $57.92 Thursday and were inactive premarket. The stock has gained 37% over the past 12 months.

-By Drew FitzGerald, Dow Jones Newswires; 212-416-2909; [e-mail]

Order free Annual Report for Watson Pharmaceuticals

Visit http://djnewswires.ar.wilink.com/?link=WPI or call 1-888-301-0513