Generic Atacand HCT

A patent currently prohibits any generic version of Atacand HCT from being manufactured. Because there are places that claim to currently sell a generic Atacand HCT, people should be advised that these medications are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. The earliest date that a generic version of Atacand HCT could become available is in 2011, when the first patent for the drug expires.

 

Generic for Atacand HCT: An Overview

Atacand HCT® (candesartan cilexetil-hydrochlorothiazide) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Atacand HCT is manufactured by AstraZeneca. It is currently protected by a patent that prevents any generic Atacand HCT from being manufactured.
 

When Will a Generic Atacand HCT Be Available?

The first patent for Atacand HCT currently expires in 2011. This is the earliest date that a generic version of Atacand HCT could become available. However, there are other circumstances that could come up to extend the exclusivity period of Atacand HCT beyond 2011. This could include such things as lawsuits or other patents for specific Atacand HCT uses. Once Atacand HCT goes off patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Atacand HCT drug.
 

Is Candesartan-Hydrochlorothiazide a Generic Atacand HCT?

The answer is no.
 Candesartan and hydrochlorothiazide are the active ingredients in Atacand HCT, but they are not generic versions of Atacand HCT. Oftentimes, the active ingredient of a drug is referred to as the "generic name." The generic name is different than 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 then another company (besides the original manufacturer) would make the product.
 
Keep in mind that if you search the Internet for "generic Atacand HCT," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is that these medicines are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. You should not buy any generic Atacand HCT until there is an approved generic available.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;