Princeton, New Jersey; July 9, 2009 — Sandoz today announced the introduction of bicalutamide tablets, USP a generic equivalent of Casodex®, in the United States. Bicalutamide is an androgen receptor inhibitor indicated for use in combination therapy with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analog for the treatment of Stage D2 metastatic carcinoma of the prostate.

According to IMS Health, US sales for branded bicalutamide tablets, USP were approximately USD 319 million for the twelve months ending April 2009. Sandoz will market bicalutamide in 50mg strength tablets, the same as Casodex®.

On December 24, 2008 the US Food & Drug Administration granted tentative approval to Accord Healthcare’s bicalutamide.

Accord is a subsidiary of Intas Pharmaceuticals, Ltd., an Indian company. Accord’s function is licensing and marketing.