Losartan Branded Price and Availability
The branded price of losartan can vary significantly depending on the specific formulation, dosage, and the pharmacy where it is purchased [1]. Losartan is available under the brand name Cozaar [2].
How Much Does Cozaar Cost?
The cost of Cozaar can range from approximately $25 to over $100 for a 30-day supply, though prices can fluctuate. This variation is influenced by factors such as insurance coverage, pharmacy choice, and whether any discounts or coupons are applied [1].
When Does Losartan Patent Expire?
The original patents for losartan have long expired, allowing for the widespread availability of generic versions [3]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent exclusivity for drugs, and for losartan, the period of market exclusivity has concluded [4].
What is the Difference Between Generic and Brand-Name Losartan?
Generic losartan is bioequivalent to brand-name Cozaar, meaning it contains the same active ingredient and is absorbed into the body at the same rate and to the same extent [3]. The primary differences are typically in the inactive ingredients, such as binders and fillers, and the manufacturing company [3]. Generic versions are generally significantly less expensive than the brand-name drug due to the absence of research and development costs that the original manufacturer incurred [5].
Why Are Generic Drugs Cheaper?
The lower cost of generic drugs is attributed to several factors. Manufacturers of generic drugs do not need to repeat extensive clinical trials to prove safety and efficacy because they rely on the data from the original brand-name drug's approval [5]. They also do not bear the initial costs of discovering and developing the drug. This allows generic manufacturers to offer their products at a considerably lower price point once patent protections for the brand-name drug expire [5].
Who Makes Losartan?
Numerous pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic losartan. Some of the common manufacturers of generic losartan include Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan (now Viatris), Sandoz, and Aurobindo Pharma, among others [6]. The brand-name version, Cozaar, was originally developed by Merck & Co. [2].
Can Biosimilars Enter Before Patent Expiry?
Biosimilars are a different category of drug from generics. They are highly similar to biological medicines but are not identical. The pathways for biosimilar approval and market entry are distinct from those for generic small-molecule drugs like losartan. For losartan, which is not a biologic, the concern is generic competition rather than biosimilar competition. Generic losartan became available after the expiration of its primary patents, leading to competition with the branded Cozaar [3][4].
What are the Risks of Taking Losartan?
Like all medications, losartan carries potential risks and side effects. Common side effects can include dizziness, fatigue, and upper respiratory tract infection [7]. More serious, though less common, side effects may include kidney problems, liver problems, and a severe allergic reaction [7]. Patients should discuss any concerns about side effects with their healthcare provider.
Sources:
1. GoodRx. (n.d.). Losartan Prices, Coupons & Savings Tips. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/losartan
2. Drugs.com. (n.d.). Losartan. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/losartan.html
3. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (n.d.). Generic Drugs: Questions & Answers. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drugs-questions-answers
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Losartan Patents and Exclusivity. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/losartan
5. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (n.d.). Generic Drugs. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs
6. NeedyMeds. (n.d.). Losartan Manufacturers. Retrieved from https://www.needymeds.org/manufacturers/losartan
7. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Losartan (Oral Route) Side Effects. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/losartan-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20073768