Although there are generic versions of Glynase and Micronase, there is no generic DiaBeta, because the FDA has determined that there are no other medications that are equivalent to it. However, many pharmacies are comfortable using generic glyburide instead, even though they are not technically interchangeable. It may be easiest to ask your healthcare provider to write you a prescription for glyburide since there is no approved generic DiaBeta available.
An Introduction to Generic DiaBeta
Glyburide was first manufactured under the brand names DiaBeta,
Glynase®, and
Micronase®. DiaBeta is manufactured by Sanofi-aventis. Glynase and Micronase are manufactured by Pfizer. The patents for all three medications have since expired, and there are now generic versions of Glynase and Micronase available. However, technically, there is no generic equivalent for DiaBeta.
Why Is There No Generic DiaBeta?
This is a difficult question to answer.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are no other medications (generic or brand name) that are equivalent to DiaBeta, even though Micronase and
generic glyburide are available, with the same active ingredient in the same strengths as DiaBeta. Many healthcare professionals would likely consider DiaBeta, Micronase, and glyburide to be interchangeable, even though they are not technically equivalent products.
Many pharmacies feel comfortable using generic glyburide in place of DiaBeta, even though they are not actually interchangeable. If you would like to receive generic glyburide, ask your healthcare provider to write your prescription specifically for "glyburide" instead of "DiaBeta" in order to avoid any problems.
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print