AstraZeneca Faces Nexium Setback

British company's attempts to expand its drugs cabinet saw setback when FDA asked for more information on proposed new use for its best-selling ulcer treatment.

LONDON (AP) -- AstraZeneca PLC says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has asked for more information about a new drug for ulcers and a proposed new use for its best-selling ulcer treatment Nexium.

Tuesday's revelation that the FDA has sought more information in so-called complete response letters is a setback to the British company's attempts to expand its drugs cabinet.

AstraZeneca had sought approval for Axanum, a new medicine combining aspirin and esomeprazole, the main ingredient in Nexium, to prevent ulcers of the stomach and duodenum.

It had also asked to market Nexium to reduce the risk of low-dose aspirin associated peptic ulcers.

AstraZeneca says it will discuss its next steps with the FDA and will respond to the requests for additional information.

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