Actavis confirmed that the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey has found that United States Patent Nos. 7,645,459 and 7,645,460 protecting Atelvia (risedronate sodium delayed-release tablets, 35 mg) in the US, are invalid.

"We are disappointed in today's ruling and strongly disagree with the Court's decision," said Brent Saunders, CEO and president of Actavis.  "We are reviewing the decision and will evaluate all available options to defend our intellectual property rights on Atelvia, including an appeal."

Atelvia is a prescription medicine indicated for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.