Is a Generic Version of Betoptic Available?
Betoptic® (
betaxolol hydrochloride) is a prescription eye drop approved for the treatment of
glaucoma and high eye pressure. Betoptic belongs to a group of medications known as
beta blockers. This medicine comes in two different forms -- regular Betoptic (a solution) and Betoptic S
® (a suspension). In a solution, the medication is dissolved in the liquid and does not need to be shaken; in a suspension, the medication is not dissolved and must be shaken well before each dose.
Brand-name Betoptic products are made by Alcon Laboratories. While regular Betoptic is available in generic form, there are no generic versions of Betoptic S at this time.
When Will Generic Betoptic S Be Available?
Although the patents for both Betoptic products have expired, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted manufacturers of Betoptic S an additional exclusivity period (during which no generic versions are allowed) for performing much-needed studies of the medication in children. Currently, the exclusivity period for Betoptic S is set to expire in December 2010. At that time, generic versions may become available.
Availability of Regular Betoptic in Generic Form
Although Betoptic S suspension is not available in generic form, regular Betoptic solution is available as a generic (sold as "Betaxolol Hydrochloride 0.5 percent solution"). A few different companies make this generic version of Betoptic, including:
- Akorn
- Bausch & Lomb
- Falcon Pharmaceuticals.
