Bentley drug wins UK OK

Bentley Pharmaceuticals can now sell its generic antacid drugs in the United Kingdom, further expanding the Exeter-based firm’s European base beyond Spain.

The British Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency approved 15 and 30 mg dosages of lansoprazole capsules, acid-pump inhibitors used to treat patients with ulcers and acid reflux disease. Industry sources estimate the annual market size of lansoprazole in the European Union is approximately $880 million, of which the UK accounts for approximately 45 percent, or $400 million. — NHBR STAFF