Generic Rosiglitazone and Glimepiride

Although the first patents for rosiglitazone and glimepiride (Avandaryl) have expired, no generic versions are available at this time. However, the drug's next patent is set to expire in October 2015. It's possible that a generic version could be introduced after this date, barring any lawsuits or other patents for specific uses of the drug.

Generic Rosiglitazone and Glimepiride: An Overview

Rosiglitazone and glimepiride (Avandaryl®) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat type 2 diabetes. The medication is a combination of two different diabetes drugs: rosiglitazone maleate (Avandia®) and glimepiride (Amaryl®).
 
In September 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it would be severely restricting the use of rosiglitazone due to the risk of "cardiovascular events" such as heart attacks and strokes. Only individuals who cannot control their diabetes on other medications (or those who are already taking the medication and doing well) will be able to take rosiglitazone.
 
Rosiglitazone and glimepiride is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic versions from being manufactured in the United States. Yet, if you search the Internet for "generic rosiglitazone and glimepiride," 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 rosiglitazone and glimepiride available from another country, but there is really no way of knowing if you are getting the genuine drug or not. You should not buy any generic rosiglitazone and glimepiride until there is an approved generic available.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD