Actavis today announced the launch of Bicalutamide tablets in the United Kingdom, Germany and France. Bicalutamide Actavis is the first generic version of the oncology drug to be made available in the three markets.

Bicalutamide, the generic version of AstraZeneca’s Casodex®, is used as a treatment for prostate cancer and will be available in tablet form in 50mg doses in all three markets, as well as in 150mg doses in the UK. Bicalutamide Actavis was launched on day one, when the brand product‘s patent expired; on 8 July in the UK and 9 July in Germany and France. Distribution of the product will commence immediately.

Commenting on the launch of Bicalutamide, Svend Andersen, Executive Vice President of Western Europe Sales, said: “We are pleased to be the first generic pharmaceutical company to bring this product to the market — creating value for patients at a lower price. Bicalutamide is an important product in Actavis’ portfolio. It is used in treating prostate cancer and also in combination with other treatments of malign diseases, prescribed by both hospitals and general practitioners.”

Actavis was able to launch generic Bicalutamide in some of its countries of operation as early as 2007, including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland and Iceland.