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Generic Lexapro

A generic Lexapro medicine is not expected to be manufactured until at least 2012, when the patent for Lexapro expires. Escitalopram is often mistakenly referred to as the generic version of Lexapro, but it is actually the medicine's active ingredient. Until an approved generic for Lexapro is available, do not buy any of the fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous drugs sold as "generic Lexapro."

 

Generic Lexapro: An Overview

Lexapro® (escitalopram oxalate) is a prescription medicine that is licensed to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults. It is part of a group of antidepressant medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
 
Lexapro is manufactured by Forest Pharmaceuticals. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Lexapro from being manufactured in the United States. Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic Lexapro," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is that these medicines are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. There may be generic Lexapro available from another country, but there is really no way of knowing if you are getting genuine Lexapro or not. You should not buy any generic Lexapro until there is an approved generic available.
 

When Will There Be a Generic Lexapro?

The earliest possible date that a generic version of Lexapro could become available is 2012.
 However, there are other circumstances that could come up to extend the exclusivity period of Lexapro beyond 2012. These circumstances could include things such as other patents for specific Lexapro uses or lawsuits. Once Lexapro goes off patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Lexapro drug.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;