Generic Anzemet

At this time, Anzemet is not available as a generic. Anzemet is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic versions from being manufactured. As soon as the patent expires in July 2011, however, several drug companies are expected to begin producing generic Anzemet products.

 

Generic Anzemet: An Overview

Anzemet® (dolasetron mesylate) is a prescription nausea and vomiting medication. It is used for the prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or surgery.
 
Anzemet is made by sanofi-aventis. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Anzemet from being manufactured in the United States.
 

When Will Generic Anzemet Be Available?

The first patent for Anzemet currently expires in July 2011. This is the earliest possible date that a generic version of Anzemet could become available. However, there are other circumstances that could arise to extend the drug's exclusivity period beyond 2011. This could include other patents for specific Anzemet uses or lawsuits. Once Anzemet goes off patent, several companies may begin manufacturing a generic Anzemet drug.
 

Is Dolasetron a Generic Anzemet?

The answer is no. Dolasetron is the active ingredient in Anzemet but is not a generic version of the drug. 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 would make the product.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;