Generic Detrol LA

At this time, generic Detrol LA is not available. The medication is currently protected by a patent that prevents any generic versions from being manufactured in the United States. As soon as this patent expires in September 2012, however, other drug companies can begin producing generic Detrol LA products, provided that patents for specific uses or lawsuits have not delayed this.

Detrol LA Capsules -- Drug Information

Generic Detrol LA: An Overview

Detrol^® LA (tolterodine ER) is a prescription medication used to treat an overactive bladder. It is an extended-release form of tolterodine that is taken just once a day.

Detrol LA is made by Pfizer, Inc. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Detrol LA from being manufactured in the United States.

When Will Generic Detrol LA Be Available?

The first patent for Detrol LA currently expires in September 2012. This is the earliest possible date that a generic version of the drug could become available. However, other circumstances could come up to extend the exclusivity period beyond 2012. This could include such things as other patents for specific Detrol LA uses or lawsuits. Once the patent expires, several companies will likely begin manufacturing a generic Detrol LA drug.

Is Tolterodine the Same as Generic Detrol LA?

No -- tolterodine is the active ingredient in Detrol LA (as well as in short-acting Detrol), but is not a generic version of it. What can be confusing is that, oftentimes, the active ingredient of any drug is referred to as the "generic name." The generic name is different from a generic version of a medicine. In order for there to be a generic version of a medicine, the original medicine must have gone off-patent and another company besides the original manufacturer must make the product.