Generic Invirase

There are currently no generic versions of Invirase manufactured in the United States. The reason for this is unclear. It's important to note that saquinavir is the "generic name" for this product; it's not a "generic version."

Generic Invirase: An Overview

Invirase® (saquinavir mesylate) is a prescription AIDS and HIV medication. It is a protease inhibitor and is approved only for use in combination with other HIV medications. Invirase should always be used with ritonavir (Norvir®), another HIV medication that increases the level of Invirase in the blood, making it more effective.
 
Invirase is made by Roche Laboratories. At this time, no generic versions are available.
 

When Will Generic Invirase Be Available?

The patent for Invirase expired in May 2011, but no generic versions are available, for reasons that are unclear. It is also unclear when a generic could become available, since there are no obvious reasons why there are no generic versions yet.
 

Is Saquinavir the Same as Generic Invirase?

No -- saquinavir is the active ingredient in Invirase, but it is not a generic version of it. What can be confusing is that, oftentimes, the active ingredient of a 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.
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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