Teva UK launches new generic obesity drug Orlistat

Teva UK has announced the launch of Orlistat, a generic anti-obesity therapy based on the Roche product Xenical.

The new drug is being made available as a 120 mg capsule treatment in a pack size of 84, with Teva becoming the first company in the UK to launch an off-label version of the treatment.

It is indicated for obese patients with a body mass index greater than or equal to 30kg per sq m, or overweight patients with associated risk factors, in combination with a mildly hypocaloric diet.

Kim Innes, commercial director at Teva, said: "As the UK's leading supplier of generics, we're pleased not only to have the widest portfolio of our competitors, but also to show that we're well-placed when it comes to innovation."

This comes after the company recently announced a major new alliance with Procter and Gamble in the consumer health sector, aimed at increasing both companies' market share.

It will involve the launch of a joint venture called PGT Healthcare, which will operate in all markets outside North America.