Generic Xopenex HFA

Although Xopenex HFA is not yet available as a generic, a number of companies claim to sell "generic Xopenex HFA." It is important to know that these products are fake and potentially dangerous, so do not purchase a generic form of Xopenex HFA until an approved version actually becomes available on the market. The first patent for Xopenex HFA currently expires in November 2009, meaning other manufacturers may be able to produce a generic Xopenex HFA drug at that time.

 

Generic Xopenex HFA: An Overview

Xopenex HFA® (levalbuterol HFA) is a prescription medication used to treat asthma and other similar lung problems. It is part of a class of asthma drugs known as beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short.
 
Xopenex HFA is manufactured by Sepracor Inc. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Xopenex HFA from being manufactured in the United States. Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic Xopenex HFA," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is, these medicines are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. There may be generic Xopenex HFA available from another country, but there is really no way of knowing if you are getting genuine Xopenex HFA or not. You should not buy any generic versions of Xopenex HFA until there is an approved generic available.
 

When Will Generic Xopenex HFA Be Available?

The first patent for Xopenex HFA currently expires in November 2009. This is the earliest date that a generic version of Xopenex HFA could become available. However, there are other circumstances that could arise to extend the exclusivity period of Xopenex HFA beyond 2009. This could include such things as other patents for specific Xopenex HFA uses or lawsuits. Once Xopenex HFA goes off patent, there may be several companies that will begin manufacturing a generic Xopenex HFA drug.
 
(Generic Xopenex HFA Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;