Novartis says Voltaren gets US approval

ZURICH, Oct 22 (Reuters) - Swiss pharmaceuticals company Novartis (NOVN.VX: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) said on Monday its Voltaren Gel had won U.S regulatory approval as the first approved topical prescription treatment for pain associated with osteoarthritis.

"The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted the approval for Voltaren Gel, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication, for use in treating pain associated with osteoarthritis in joints amenable to topical treatment, such as the knees and those of the hands," Novartis said.

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joint.

((Reporting by Katie Reid; katie.reid@reuters.com; Reuters Messaging: katie.reid.reuters.com@reuters.net; telephone: +41

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