Generic Keppra XR

There are currently no generic versions of Keppra XR (levetiracetam XR) available on the market. The medication is under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic versions from being manufactured in the United States. The earliest predictable date that any generic Keppra XR drugs could become available is September 2011.

Keppra XR Drug Information

Is a Generic Version of Keppra XR Available?

Keppra XR™ (levetiracetam XR) is a prescription epilepsy medication. Specifically, Keppra XR is approved to be used in combination with other seizure medications to treat partial seizures. It is a long-acting medication that is taken just once a day.

Currently, Keppra XR is manufactured by UCB, Inc. It is currently under the protection of exclusivity rights that prevent any generic Keppra XR from being manufactured in the United States.

When Will a Generic Version Be Available?

UCB holds the exclusive rights to market Keppra XR until at least September 2011. However, there are circumstances that could arise to extend (or shorten) the exclusivity period of Keppra XR. This could include such things as other patents for specific Keppra XR uses or lawsuits. Because of such factors, there is an inherent unpredictability and uncertainty about the timing of first-time generics. Therefore, September 2011 is merely a current "best guess" as to when generic Keppra XR may become available.

Is Levetiracetam a Generic Keppra XR?

The answer is no. Levetiracetam is the active ingredient in Keppra XR (as well as immediate-release Keppra) but is not a generic version of the medication. 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.