Generic Benicar

There is currently no generic version of Benicar available for sale because it is protected by a patent. When the patent expires in 2016, a generic Benicar may become available. Some companies claim to sell a generic version of Benicar, but these drugs are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous, and should be avoided.

 

Generic Benicar: An Overview

Benicar® (olmesartan medoxomil) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs for short. As the name implies, Benicar blocks angiotensin II receptors. This decreases the effectiveness of a chemical known as angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking the effects of angiotensin II, Benicar causes blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure.
 
Benicar is manufactured by Sankyo Pharma, Inc. It is currently protected by a patent that prevents any generic Benicar from being manufactured.
 
Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic Benicar," 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 Benicar until there is an approved generic version available.
 

When Will a Generic Benicar Be Available?

The first patent for Benicar currently expires in April 2016.
 This is the earliest date that a generic version of Benicar could become available. However, other circumstances could cause the exclusivity period to extend beyond 2016. This could include such things as other patents for specific Benicar uses or lawsuits. Once Benicar goes off-patent, several companies may begin manufacturing a generic Benicar drug.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;