FDA approves Actavis' generic Ambien CR

MORRISTOWN, N.J. The Food and Drug Administration has approved a drug for treating insomnia made by Actavis, the generic drug maker said Monday.

Actavis announced the approval of zolpidem tartrate extended-release tablets in the 6.25-mg strength. The company has begun shipping the drug.

The drug is a generic version of Sanofi-Aventis’ Ambien CR, which had sales of around $129 million during the 12-month period ended in June, according to IMS Health.