Laboratory researchers in a file photo. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved on Friday the first generic versions of Requip (ropinirole hydrochloride) tablets for the treatment of moderate to severe Restless Legs Syndrome.(Xinhua/Reuters File Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved on Friday the first generic versions of Requip (ropinirole hydrochloride) tablets for the treatment of moderate to severe Restless Legs Syndrome.

    The following companies have received approval to market ropinirole hydrochloride tablets: Roxane Laboratories Inc., Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Par Pharmaceuticals Inc., and Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc.

    "This generic drug approval is an example of the FDA's efforts to increase access to safe and effective generic drugs as soon as the law permits," said Gary Buehler, director of the FDA's Office of Generic Drugs.

    The labeling of the generic versions of ropinirole hydrochloride may differ from that of Requip because some uses of the drug are protected by patents. In addition to treating Restless Legs Syndrome, Requip is also FDA-approved to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The generic products are not approved for treatment of Parkinson's disease because this indication is protected by patent.

    Manufacturers of the generic drugs may seek approval for that use once the patent for the Parkinson's disease indication expires later this month, said FDA.