AstraZeneca introduces DUTOPROL for hypertension

AstraZeneca (NYSE: AZN) today announced the availability of DUTOPROL™ (metoprolol succinate extended release/hydrochlorothiazide) Tablets, the first and only once-daily antihypertensive agent that contains the active ingredient of TOPROL-XL^® (metoprolol succinate) plus a low-dose diuretic (also known as a water pill) that provides proven blood pressure lowering at 24 hours.

“DUTOPROL may provide another treatment option for patients with hypertension. We have launched DUTOPROL so patients now have the option to receive a branded combination medicine, in a convenient, once-a-day tablet.”

"One in three US adults have high blood pressure, and of these patients whom are treated, approximately 36% remain uncontrolled," said Steve Davis, Executive Director, Foundation Brands, AstraZeneca. "DUTOPROL may provide another treatment option for patients with hypertension. We have launched DUTOPROL so patients now have the option to receive a branded combination medicine, in a convenient, once-a-day tablet."

Instead of a traditional payer contracting strategy, AstraZeneca has taken a novel approach in launching DUTOPROL at a wholesale acquisition price ($15.90) that's competitive to the generics of TOPROL-XL and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, with or without insurance coverage.

AstraZeneca has created DUTOPROL Direct, a direct-to-patient mail-order program, which may offer additional savings to patients beyond the retail pharmacy price so they can fill their prescription for $18.33 per month, with free shipping and handling, when they order a 90-day supply. However, for patients who wish to use their local pharmacies, AstraZeneca has also created a retail pharmacy program.

With DUTOPROL, AstraZeneca builds upon the hypertension legacy of TOPROL-XL, which has been in use for 20 years as a treatment for hypertension and was among the nation's top-ten most-prescribed medicines for the five years prior to the introduction of generic versions of TOPROL-XL at all dosage strengths.