Generic Vimpat

There are currently no generic Vimpat (lacosamide) products available, as this medication is protected by patents. Once the first patent expires in August 2014, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic version of this drug. However, lawsuits or other patents for specific uses of Vimpat may extend or shorten the exclusivity period of this medication. Lacosamide is the "generic name" of Vimpat; it is not a "generic version" of the drug.

Vimpat Medication Information

Is a Generic Version of Vimpat Available?

Vimpat^® (lacosamide) is a prescription seizure medication. It is only approved for use along with other seizure medications to treat partial-onset seizures in people age 17 years old and older.

Vimpat is manufactured by UCB, Inc. It is currently under the protection of patents that prevent any generic versions of Vimpat from being manufactured in the United States.

When Will a Generic Version Be Available?

The first patent for Vimpat currently expires in August 2014. This is the earliest predictable date that a generic version of Vimpat could become available. However, there are other circumstances that could come up to extend or shorten the exclusivity period of Vimpat. This could include such things as lawsuits or other patents for Vimpat uses. Once Vimpat goes off patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Vimpat drug.

Is Lacosamide a Generic Vimpat?

No -- lacosamide is the active ingredient in Vimpat, but it is not a generic version of Vimpat. 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 would make the product.