At this time, generic Fosamax Plus D is not available in the United States. The medication is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic versions from being manufactured. As soon as the patent expires in April 2008, however, other drug companies may begin manufacturing generic Fosamax Plus D products.
Generic Fosamax Plus D: An Overview
Fosamax Plus D is made by Merck & Co., Inc. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any
generic Fosamax Plus D from being manufactured in the United States.
When Will Generic Fosamax Plus D Be Available?
Merck has the exclusive rights to market Fosamax Plus D until at least April 2008. This is the earliest possible date that a generic version of the drug could become available. However, other circumstances could come up to extend the exclusivity period beyond 2008. This could include such things as other patents for specific
Fosamax Plus D uses or lawsuits. There have already been several lawsuits examining the issue of Fosamax patents, and more lawsuits are likely to occur. Once the patent expires and any lawsuits are resolved, several companies will likely begin manufacturing generic Fosamax Plus D.
Is Alendronate and Cholecalciferol the Same as Generic Fosamax Plus D?
No --
alendronate and cholecalciferol are the active ingredients in Fosamax Plus D, but they are not a generic version of it. What can be confusing is that, oftentimes, the active ingredient of any drug is referred to as the "generic name." The generic name is different from a generic version of a medicine. In order for there to be a generic version of a medicine, the original medicine must have gone off-patent and another company besides the original manufacturer must make the product.
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print