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Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. has launched Kapspargo Sprinkle (metoprolol succinate) extended-release capsules in the US, for the treatment of hypertension (to lower blood pressure), angina pectoris (chest pain), and heart failure.

Kapspargo Sprinkle, a USFDA-approved, novel, patented formulation of Metoprolol succinate, is the first and only extended-release sprinkle formulation of this beta-blocker. It can be sprinkled over soft food or administered via a nasogastric tube, and are designed to facilitate long-term, once-daily administration, particularly for patients who have difficulty swallowing.

“Roughly 40% of patients requiring long-term care have difficulty swallowing, a problem that may result in patient non-adherence to medications as well as medication errors,” said Mr. Abhay Gandhi, CEO-North America, Sun Pharma. “Kapspargo Sprinkle capsules may make it easier for patients to take their antihypertensive medication. This innovative product is the latest example of Sun Pharma’s use of advanced technology to create novel formulations of proven medications.”

The extended-release capsules comprise a multiple unit system containing metoprolol succinate in a multitude of controlled-release pellets. Each pellet acts as a separate drug delivery unit that is designed to deliver metoprolol continuously over the dosage interval. The extended-release capsules are available in dosage strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg.