Generic Flovent

There are no generic versions of Flovent HFA or Flovent Diskus licensed for sale at this time. The earliest date that a generic version of Flovent HFA could become available is December 2012; the earliest that a generic Flovent Diskus could become available is September 2011. However, certain circumstances (such as lawsuits) could come up to extend the exclusivity periods of these medications.

Generic Flovent: An Overview

Flovent® (fluticasone inhaler) is a prescription medication used to prevent asthma attacks. It is part of a class of asthma drugs known as inhaled corticosteroids. It comes in two forms, Flovent HFA and Flovent Diskus®.
 
"HFA" stands for hydrofluoroalkane, which is the propellant used in Flovent HFA inhalers. Because this inhaler uses hydrofluoroalkane, it is environmentally friendly. This has replaced the old Flovent® inhaler, which contained substances that may deplete the ozone layer. The Flovent Diskus is a dry powder inhaler device.
 
Flovent is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. It is currently under the protection of patents that prevent any generic Flovent from being manufactured in the United States.
 

When Will Generic Flovent Be Available?

The first patent for Flovent HFA currently expires in December 2012; the first patent for Flovent Diskus expires in September 2011. These are the earliest possible dates that a generic version of Flovent HFA or Flovent Diskus could become available. However, there are circumstances that could come up to extend the exclusivity period of Flovent. These circumstances could include things such as other patents for specific Flovent uses or lawsuits. Once Flovent goes off patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Flovent product.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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