Actavis launches generic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis therapy

Actavis has announced the launch of a new generic therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of motor neurone disease.

Riluzole film-coated tablets are being introduced by the manufacturer in a number of major European markets with immediate effect, including the UK, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Hungary.

It is being released following the patent expiry of the original branded product Rilutek, which is manufactured by Sanofi and generated sales of 77 million euros (61.79 million pounds) for the year ending June 2012, according to data from IMS.

The therapy is specifically indicated to extend the life or the time to mechanical ventilation for patients with ALS.

Following its European debut, Actavis will be looking to expand the availability of Riluzole in additional countries over the coming months.

Last week, the company's chief executive officer Claudio Albrecht told Reuters that Actavis revenues are expected to rise to more than two billion euros this year, driven by patent expiries in Europe and strong demand in the US.