Finally . . . the last of the BIG FIVE goes generic. The FDA announced approval for Teva Pharmaceuticals to begin to market escitalopram. The get 6 months of exclusivity, then it is up for grabs. While I do think it is a good thing overall, I do worry about quality with the generics sometimes. Despite the assertion that there is no difference between brand name and generic, it does make a difference for some people. Still, all in all, it is good to be able to offer a generic alternative for this. Many people will be happy! Don’t look for great savings until the 6 month window is closed, however. Teva will be looking for whatever profits they can get before it hits the open market.
–Dan Hartman, MD
