An Introduction to Generic Valtrex
Valtrex® (
valacyclovir hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat
shingles,
cold sores,
chickenpox, and
genital herpes. It can also be used on a daily basis to prevent recurring outbreaks of genital herpes and to decrease the chance of spreading genital herpes to sexual partners.
Valtrex is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. It is currently protected by a patent that prevents any generic versions from being manufactured. Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic Valtrex," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is that these medicines could be fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. You should not buy any generic Valtrex until there is an approved version available.
When Will Generic Valtrex Be Available?
The first patent for Valtrex currently expires in 2009. This is the earliest date that a generic version could become available. However, other circumstances could extend the exclusivity period beyond 2009. This could include such things as other patents for specific
Valtrex uses or lawsuits. Once the patent expires, several companies will likely begin manufacturing a generic Valtrex drug.
Is Valacyclovir a Generic Valtrex?
No -- valacyclovir is the active ingredient in Valtrex, but is not a generic version of it. What can be confusing is that, oftentimes, the active ingredient of a 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 medicine must have gone off-patent and another company besides the original manufacturer must make the product.
