Teva UK launches generic schizophrenia treatment

Teva UK has announced the launch of generic Quetiapine film-coated tablets and Quetiapine XL tablets, two new off-label treatments for schizophrenia.

The products are based on Seroquel and Seroquel XL from AstraZeneca and have been launched on the day of the brand versions' patent expiry, allowing NHS buyers to immediately benefit from affordable new prescription options.

Standard Quetiapine is indicated for schizophrenia and moderate-to-severe manic episodes, while Quetiapine XL is also intended for bipolar disorder sufferers and patients with major depressive disorder who have responded poorly to antidepressant monotherapy.

This latest launch follows closely behind the recent introductions of generic versions of Desloratadine, Zolmitriptan and Naratriptan.

Kim Innes, commercial director at Teva UK, said: "We've now launched ten new products in 11 weeks, including seven on day one of patent expiry. It adds up to what is the UK's widest portfolio of medicines, with over 700 products."