Sandoz wins prestigious DIANA award for tacrolimus launch

The Healthcare Distribution Management Association (HDMA) has recognized Sandoz Inc. with a 2010 Distribution Industry Award for Notable Achievements in Healthcare (DIANA) in the Best New Generic Product Introduction Award category. Sandoz received the award for the U.S. launch of tacrolimus, a generic equivalent of Prograf.

Sandoz launched tacrolimus, an immunosuppressive treatment used to help prevent rejection of a kidney or liver transplant, in August 2009, becoming the first company to bring a generic version of Prograf to the United States.

“We are honored that our commitment to launch excellence has been recognized by HDMA with this prestigious award,” said Don DeGolyer, president of U.S. operations and head of commercial operations for North America for Germany-based Sandoz. “The launch of tacrolimus has served as an example of our organization’s collective focus on delivering differentiated products that provide value to our customers, and our dedication to improving access to high-quality, affordable treatments.”

The DIANA awards are annually given in a variety of categories focused on manufacturing, new product introductions, and product promotions for the healthcare distribution industry. The awards recognize companies that demonstrate leadership and innovation in these areas, as well as those whose business practices improve trade relations and benefit the healthcare supply chain.