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Generic Micardis HCT
A patent currently prevents a generic Micardis HCT drug from being manufactured. The earliest date that a generic form of this high blood pressure medicine could become available is 2020, when its first patent with Boehringer Ingelheim expires. Do not purchase any so-called generic Micardis HCT medicines until an approved version actually becomes available. These drugs are fake and potentially dangerous.
Generic Micardis HCT: An Overview
Micardis HCT® (telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Micardis HCT is manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim. It is currently protected by a patent that prevents any generic Micardis HCT from being manufactured.
When Will a Generic Micardis Be Available?
The first patent for Micardis HCT currently expires in 2020. This is the earliest date that a generic version of Micardis HCT could become available. However, circumstances could arise to extend the exclusivity period beyond 2020. This could include such things as other patents for specific Micardis HCT uses or lawsuits. Once Micardis HCT goes off-patent, several companies will likely begin manufacturing a generic Micardis HCT drug.
Is Telmisartan/Hydrochlorothiazide a Generic Micardis HCT?
The answer is no. Telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide are the active ingredients in Micardis HCT, but are not generic versions of it. 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 must have gone off-patent and another company besides the original manufacturer must make the product.
Keep in mind that if you search the Internet for "generic Micardis 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 Micardis HCT until there is an approved generic version available.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD