Alvogen’s flu capsules alternative for Tamiflu

Alvogen on Monday launched the first flu capsules, generic equivalent to Roche’s Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) capsules in the United States.

Alvogen expects the flu capsules generic equivalent to Tamiflu to deliver significant savings for patients and health providers of up to $500 million during this upcoming season. The product is available in three strengths (30 mg, 45 mg and 75 mg).

Robert Wessman, Chairman and CEO of Alvogen, said that the launch of oseltamivir phosphate is great news for U.S. patients, because they will now have access to a more affordable alternative to Tamiflu.

“It is also an important milestone for our U.S. business. The launch demonstrates our ability to move quickly and we are proud to partner with Natco to bring this product to market,” Wessman said.

Alvogen currently has 79 products in development and pending FDA approval for the U.S. market. Annual brand sales for filed products and those under development have current brand sales exceeding $25 billion, according to IMS Health (2015).

A consortium of investors, led by CVC Capital Partners and including Singapore-based investment company Temasek and Vatera Healthcare Partners, acquired a majority stake in Alvogen in June 2015.