Generic Micardis

There is currently no generic Micardis available on the market. However, the first patent for Micardis expires in 2014, and after the patent expires, several companies may start manufacturing a generic version of the drug. At this time, there are several companies that claim to sell generic Micardis. Don't be fooled -- these medicines are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous.

 

Generic for Micardis: An Overview

Micardis® (telmisartan) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Micardis is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs for short). Micardis blocks angiotensin II receptors (hence its classification as an angiotensin II receptor blocker). 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, Micardis causes blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure.
 
Micardis is manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim. It is currently protected by a patent that prevents any generic Micardis from being manufactured.
 
Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic Micardis," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is, these medicines are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. You should not buy any generic Micardis until there is an approved generic version available.
 

Micardis Patent Expiration

The first patent for Micardis currently expires in 2014.
 This is the earliest date that a generic version of Micardis could become available. However, there are other circumstances that could arise to extend the exclusivity period of Micardis beyond 2014. This could include things like lawsuits or other patents for specific Micardis uses. Once Micardis goes off patent, there may be several companies manufacturing a generic Micardis drug.
 
(Generic Micardis Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;