Generic Xalatan Hits The Market

We've written in the past about the potential problems that can come up when you change from a branded drug to a generic. Not all generics are equal to the brand they replace. Some of them have side effects that have been solved by newer versions of the drug, and some of them are much less convenient to take (4 times a day instead of once, for example) than the newer, brand versions.

But sometimes the generic is acually pretty good! The second generic version of the glaucoma drug Xalatan is now on the market, and this is an example of a good generic choice. From Eyewire:
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Mylan Receives Approval for Generic Version of Xalatan Ophthalmic Solution

From Mylan Inc.
FDA Approval

Mylan Inc. announced that its subsidiary Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. has received final approval from the FDA for its Abbreviated New Drug Application for Latanoprost Ophthalmic Solution, 0.005%, the generic version of Pharmacia and Upjohn's Xalatan Ophthalmic Solution, an eyedrop that lowers pressure in the eye.

Mylan President Heather Bresch said: "We are very pleased to introduce this product to the market as it represents Mylan's first ophthalmic solution. This signifies a new internal development capability for the company, and we currently have in development a number of additional products in this important category."

Latanoprost Ophthalmic Solution had U.S. sales of approximately $711 million for the 12 months ending Dec. 31, 2010, according to IMS Health. Mylan is shipping this product immediately.
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At Skyvision Centers Cleveland offices we are always on the lookout for the best possible solutions to your eyecare. Sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and buy the non-generic, brand medicine, but it looks like you are in luck if you have to take Xalatan!