So Where’s the Generic Propecia?
Dr,
Any word on generic propecia getting to the market yet? I know some company has the patent and that you would keep an eye on it, but I havent heard anything.
- Propecia is a brand name for finasteride 1mg tablet. Propecia (finasteride 1mg) is still under patent protection and is not available in generic formulation.
- Proscar is a brand name for finasteride 5mg tablet. Proscar (finasteride 5mg) is now available in generic (less expensive) formulation.
There has been some confusion on websites that Propecia (finasteride 1mg) will be available in generic formulation, but it is my understanding that it is not the case. I know it has been pointed out here that 1mg finasteride was listed on the US FDA website, but it being listed as approved for sale is different from it being on sale (which in my understanding would be in violation of Merck’s patent rights). This applies to countries where US patent laws and treaties exist.
Since Propecia and Proscar are both the same medication in different strengths (1mg vs. 5mg), some patients prefer to save money and take generic Proscar (finasteride 5mg) and use a pill cutter and divide it into 1/4ths (which makes about 1.25mg). When a pill cutter is used, it often is not exact and there is a tendency for the pill to break apart so that you have to estimate what is about 1mg. I personally do not think that there is a difference if you are slightly above or below the recommended dose.
Reader Comments0
Share this entry
Leave a Comment
Want to join the discussion? Feel free to contribute! Note: We do not tolerate offensive language or personal attacks to other readers. Marketing links or commercial advertisements will be deleted.