Generic Gemzar

Currently, Gemzar is not available as a generic medication because it is protected by a patent. However, the patent for Gemzar expires in November 2010, which means that other drug companies could begin manufacturing generic Gemzar products at that time. This date could be extended if certain circumstances arise, such as lawsuits or other patents for specific Gemzar uses.

 

An Overview of Generic Gemzar

Gemzar® (gemcitabine) is a prescription medication used to treat various types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and pancreatic cancer. It is part of a group of chemotherapy medications called antimetabolites.
 
Gemzar is made by Eli Lilly. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Gemzar from being manufactured in the United States.
 

When Will Generic Gemzar Be Available?

The first patent for Gemzar currently expires in November 2010. This is the earliest possible date that a generic version of Gemzar could become available. However, circumstances could extend this exclusivity period beyond 2010. These circumstances could include things such as other patents for specific Gemzar uses or lawsuits. Once the patent expires, several companies will likely begin manufacturing generic Gemzar.
 

Is Gemcitabine a Generic Gemzar?

No -- gemcitabine is the active ingredient in Gemzar, but it is not a generic version of it. What can be confusing is that, oftentimes, the active ingredient of a drug is referred to as its "generic name." The generic name of a drug is different from a generic version of it. 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 have made the product.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;