The generic version of Novartis’ Exelon (rivastigmine) for the treatment of patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease has been released in the UK.

Teva’s rivastigmine is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of mild to moderately severe Alzheimer’s dementia and symptomatic treatment of mild to moderately severe dementia in patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease.

Kim Innes, Commercial Director at Teva, said the launch of the medication would help save the NHS £9bn each year through its continued used of generic alternatives.

“So far this year, we’ve launched 20 new products, including ten day-one patent expiries, which is good for pharmacy because new products provide opportunities for increasing margins and keeping costs down,” she said.

Charity Alzheimer’s Research UK estimates that treating dementia in the UK costs around £23bn each year.

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