Generic Reclast

There is currently no generic version of Reclast available because the drug is protected by a patent. While this patent is set to expire in 2013, things like lawsuits or patents for specific uses may extend this exclusivity period. Once the patent expires, various drug companies will likely begin providing generic Reclast.

 

Reclast Generic: An Overview

Reclast™ (zoledronic acid) is a medication approved to treat Paget's disease of bone. It is also approved to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It is available by prescription only and is given by IV (intravenously). Reclast belongs to a group of medications known as bisphosphonates. It is made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
 

When Will Generic Reclast Be Available?

Novartis has the exclusive rights to market Reclast until at least March 2013. 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 2013. This could include such things as other patents for specific Reclast uses or lawsuits. Once the patent expires, several companies will likely begin manufacturing generic Reclast products.
 

Is Zoledronic Acid the Same as Generic Reclast?

No -- zoledronic acid is the active ingredient in Reclast (as well as in another medication, Zometa®), but is 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.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;