On Friday, June 23, the FDA approved Simvastatin, a generic form of the cholesterol drug Zocor®, which just had it's patent expire. Zocor was the number 2 cholesterol drug on the market, behind Lipitor. Users can expect lower prices for those who can use the generic version, and after the 180 day exclusive received by IVAX and Ranbaxy Pharmacueticals, lower prices still.

In an interesting play to keep their marketshare, theStreet.com is reporting that Merck signed a deal with UnitedHealthCare that would allow it's patients to receive Zocor® at a price lower than that of Simvastatin, the generic.

Simvastatin

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