A patent currently prohibits any generic Prandin from being manufactured. Some companies claim to sell a generic version, but these medications are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. The earliest date that a generic Prandin could become available is 2009, when the patent expires. However, other patents for specific uses of Prandin or lawsuits could extend this exclusivity period.
Generic Prandin: An Overview
Prandin® (
repaglinide) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat
type 2 diabetes when lifestyle changes alone, such as diet and exercise, do not control blood sugar. It is part of a class of
diabetes drugs called meglitinides. These medications help the
pancreas make more insulin, which helps to lower blood sugar. It is designed to lower blood sugar levels following a meal.
Prandin is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Inc. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Prandin from being manufactured in the United States. Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic Prandin," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is that these medicines are fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. There may be generic Prandin available from another country, but there is really no way of knowing if you are getting genuine Prandin or not. You should not buy any generic Prandin until there is an approved version available.
When Will Generic Prandin Be Available?
The first patent for Prandin currently expires in 2009.
This is the earliest possible date that a generic version of Prandin could become available. However, other circumstances could extend the exclusivity period beyond 2009. This could include things such as other patents for specific
Prandin uses or lawsuits. Once the patent expires, several companies will likely begin manufacturing a generic Prandin drug.