Generic Optivar

Is a Generic Version of Optivar Available?

Optivar^® (azelastine ophthalmic solution) is a prescription eye drop used to treat eye allergies (known medically as allergic conjunctivitis). It belongs to a group of medications known as antihistamines.

 

Optivar is manufactured by Patheon UK, Ltd. (6 mL size), or Catalent Pharma Solutions (0.2 mL size) and is marketed and distributed by Meda Pharmaceuticals, Inc. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Optivar from being manufactured in the United States.

 

The first patent for Optivar is currently set to expire in May 2011. However, Meda Pharmaceuticals has an agreement with one generic manufacturer (Apotex) to allow a generic version of Optivar as early as December 2009. This is the earliest predictable date that a generic version of Optivar could become available.

 

However, there are other circumstances that could come up to extend or shorten the exclusivity period of Optivar. This could include such things as lawsuits or other patents for new Optivar uses. Once Optivar goes off patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Optivar drug.

 

Is Azelastine a Generic Optivar?

No -- azelastine hydrochloride is the active ingredient in Optivar (as well as Astelin^® and Astepro^™ nasal sprays), but it is not a generic version of Optivar. 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.