WILMINGTON, Del. — AstraZeneca has introduced Dutoprol Tablets, an anti-hypertension medication that the company described as the first and only once-daily combination with the active ingredient of Toprol-XL (metoprolol succinate) extended-release tablets plus low-dose hydrochlorothiazide, offering the dual efficacy of a beta blocker and a diuretic.

The company said Thursday that Dutoprol Tablets (metoprolol succinate extended release/hydrochlorothiazide) builds on the legacy of Toprol-XL, which has been in use for 20 years as a treatment for high blood pressure and was among the nation’s top 10 most-prescribed medicines for the five years before the introduction of generic versions at all dosage strengths.

"One in three U.S. adults have high blood pressure, and of these patients whom are treated approximately 36% remain uncontrolled," stated Steve Davis, executive director of foundation brands at 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."

AstraZeneca also noted that instead of employing a traditional payer contracting strategy, it’s launching Dutoprol at a wholesale acquisition price ($15.90) that’s competitive with the generics of Toprol-XL and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, with or without insurance coverage.

AstraZeneca said it has created Dutoprol Direct, a direct-to-patient mail order program that allows eligible patients with a valid prescription for the medication to have it shipped directly to their home by Express Scripts pharmacy services for $18.33 per month, with free shipping and handling, when they order a 90-day supply. The company has also created a retail pharmacy program for patients who wish to use their local pharmacies.