Several generic versions of BMS’s blockbuster blood thinning drug Plavix (clopidogrel) have been released in the US after patent protection expired.

The FDA has approved a number of manufacturers that are now able to supply the treatment, which generated sales of $6.8 billion in the US last year for BMS and its partner Sanofi.

BMS, which earned a third of its revenue from Plavix, said last week it would no longer promote the drug following the loss of patent protection.

However, it will reduce the monthly cost of the treatment from $100 to $37 in an attempt to hold some market share, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Mylan Pharmaceuticals is in the driving seat to take advantage of BMS’ loss with the generic manufacturer ready to ship its products across the country.

Alongside Mylan, Teva, Apotex, Aurobindo Pharma, Roxane Laboratories, Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Torrent Pharmaceuticals, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories and Gate Pharmaceuticals have also been approved by the FDA to supply clopidogrel.

AstraZeneca will reduce its US sales force by nearly a quarter (24%) as part of new plans to operate its business more efficiently.

Approximately 1,150 leadership and sales representative positions will be axed in the plans which the company claims will cost between $50 and $100 million.

Rich Fante, President, AstraZeneca US, says the job cuts are “difficult decisions that impact valued employees”.

The reduction to the US sales force is incremental to the company’s second phase of its restructuring programme first revealed at the start of the year.

“The changes we are making, however, will help us deliver better results for our business and, most importantly, continue delivering on our mission of patient health,” said Mr Fante.

Employees will have the option of voluntary redundancy with all decision finalised by early February 2012.

Despite streamlining its US operations, AstraZeneca has revealed plans to expand its presence in emerging markets after agreeing to buy Chinese generics maker Guangdong BeiKang Pharmaceutical.

The deal is AZ’s second generic acquisition in the country after its partnership with Aurobindo Pharma. A $200 million manufacturing facility in China is also planned.