Generic Prozac

Prozac is an anti-depressant that is classified as an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). Prozac is a name brand pharmaceutical drug, which uses the active ingredient fluoxetine. Prozac is now available on the market under the generic name fluoxetine. Fluoxetine is also prescribed for the treatment of panic disorders, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and bulimia and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Dosages of fluoxetine vary depending on the age of the patient and the disorder for which the medication was prescribed. The introduction of generics into the pharmaceutical market place is only possible after the patent for its' original drug has expired. The average time that an original name brand is protected under patent laws is 11-13 years. Once the patent has expired the generic version can enter the market only after it has passed numerous tests.

The generic version of Prozac is bound by law and by the standards of the Food and Drug Administration to match the original drug (Prozac) in quality and strength. Manufacturers of generic drugs are not, however, bound to match the original in shape and/or color. The generic producer is also not bound by law to duplicate the research and testing undergone by the original manufacturer. This fact is probably the main reason for the huge decreases in the price of generics relative to the name brand drugs. The added expense of research and testing incurred by the name brand company is one of the main factors for the relatively lengthy period of patent protection. This fact is lost on many consumers, which adds to much of the scrutiny, and mistrust the pharmaceutical giants are held to today.

In 2003 changes were made in the laws that used to add to the delay of a generic version reaching the market place. Prior to 2003 the number of times a name brand company was allowed to sue the generic company for patent infringement went unchecked. With each lawsuit the generic company was forced to hold up production for thirty days. After 2003 name brand manufacturers were allowed only one lawsuit and thus only one thirty day delay.