First UK generic competitor to Seroquel

Teva UK has launched generic versions of AstraZeneca’s blockbuster antipsychotic Seroquel and the extended-release Seroquel XR on the first day of patent expiry.

The launch follows the decision by a UK court that the patent on Seroquel XR, extending the brand’s exclusivity, is not valid.

The new generic Quetiapine and Quetiapine (Sondate) XL were also launched on the day that AZ lost its appeal against the FDA’s decision to allow generic competition to Seroquel in the US.

Quetiapine is indicated for treatment of schizophrenia and moderate to severe manic episodes, while Quetiapine XL is indicated for treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and for adjuvant treatment of major depressive disorder in patients whose response to antidepressant monotherapy is sub-optimal.

Both generics are available on Teva’s PriceWatch service, which matches the lower of Teva’s list price and the month’s average market price.

Kim Innes, Teva UK’s Commercial Director, said: “With the launch of Quetiapine and Quetiapine XL, we’re making more medicines accessible for more people. Launches like these help towards saving the NHS over GBP9bn on generic prescriptions.”

The Seroquel brand accounted for 17% of AstraZeneca’s revenue in 2011, with sales of $5.7bn including Seroquel XR sales of $1.49bn. The Seroquel patent cliff in Europe and the US is expected to impact severely on AZ in 2012.

Teva UK is part of Israel-based Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, the world’s largest generic drug manufacturer.