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Generic Kapvay
At this time, a generic version of Kapvay (clonidine ER) is not available. The first patent for this medication is set to expire in 2013, which is the earliest predictable date that a generic version could become available. It is important to note that clonidine ER is the "generic name" for Kapvay, not a generic version of it.
Kapvay™ (clonidine ER) is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It belongs to a group of medications known as alpha-2 agonists.
Kapvay is made by Shionogi Pharma, Inc. A patent currently prevents any generic versions of Kapvay from being manufactured in the United States.
The first patent for Kapvay currently expires in October 2013. This is the earliest predictable date that a generic version could become available.
However, other circumstances could come up to extend or shorten this exclusivity period. This could include such things as lawsuits or other patents for specific Kapvay uses. Once the drug goes off-patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Kapvay medication.
No -- clonidine is the active ingredient in Kapvay (as well as several other medications), not a generic version of it. What can be confusing is that the active ingredient of a drug is often 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, the original medicine must have gone off-patent and another company besides the original manufacturer must make the product.
It should be noted that short-acting clonidine (Catapres®) is not equivalent to Kapvay and is not approved for treating ADHD.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD