Generic Evista

The earliest that an approved version of generic Evista could be available is in July 2012, when the first patent for the drug expires. So-called generic versions may be available on the Internet, but there is no way of knowing how safe these drugs are or if you are even getting genuine Evista. Once the patent expires, generic Evista will likely be widely available.

 

Generic Evista: An Overview

Evista® (raloxifene hydrochloride) is a prescription medication approved for the following uses:
 
  • Lowering the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis
  • Lowering the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women who are at high risk for breast cancer
  • Treating or preventing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
     
Evista is made by Eli Lilly and Company. The drug is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Evista from being manufactured in the United States. Yet if you search the Internet for "generic Evista," you may find a number of companies selling it. The fact is that these medicines may be fake, substandard, and potentially dangerous. Generic Evista may be available from another country, but there is really no way of knowing if you are getting genuine Evista or not. You should not buy any generic Evista until an approved version is available.
 

When Will Generic Evista Be Available?

The first patent for Evista currently expires in July 2012. This is the earliest possible date that a generic version of the drug could become available. However, other circumstances could come up to extend the exclusivity period beyond 2012. This could include such things as other patents for specific Evista uses or lawsuits. Once the patent expires, several companies will likely begin manufacturing generic Evista.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;