What is Selectra, and how does it compare to escitalopram brand names?
Selectra is a brand name for the generic version of escitalopram, an antidepressant medication approved for treating depression and generalized anxiety disorder [1]. It is not a new compound but rather a rebranded version of the same active ingredient, escitalopram, which is the S-enantiomer of the racemic mixture of the previously known antidepressant citalopram [2].
How does Selectra differ from Lexapro?
Lexapro is another brand name for escitalopram and is manufactured by Forest Laboratories. While both Selectra and Lexapro contain the same active ingredient, they are not necessarily identical in terms of formulation, packaging, or pricing [3]. Lexapro has been a widely used brand name for escitalopram in the United States since 2002, and its patent expired in 2012 [4]. Manufacturers like Teva and Mylan began releasing generic versions, and Selectra is likely one of these generic alternatives.
Is Selectra available in the US, and how does it compare in terms of pricing?
Yes, Selectra is available in the US as a generic version of escitalopram. As with many generic medications, the price of Selectra is generally lower than that of the branded version, Lexapro [5]. Pricing can vary depending on the retailer, insurance coverage, and location, but generic escitalopram (Selectra) is often significantly cheaper than the branded equivalent.
Who makes Selectra, and where can I purchase it?
Selectra is manufactured by various generic drug manufacturers, including Teva Pharmaceuticals and Mylan N.V. It can be purchased from various pharmacies, including CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, and independently owned pharmacies, as well as online retailers like Amazon.
Can I trust Selectra as a generic version of Lexapro?
Generic medications, like Selectra, must meet the same standards and quality control measures as brand-name medications. In the United States, the FDA requires that generic drugs match the bioavailability and efficacy of the reference product (in this case, Lexapro) to ensure that they work in the same way and produce similar results [6]. While concerns may arise regarding the quality of generic medications, it's essential to note that reputable manufacturers like Teva and Mylan follow strict guidelines to ensure the quality and safety of their products.
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com (2023). Escitalopram. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/DrugPatent/escitalopram
[2] Drugs.com (2022). Escitalopram. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/mtm/escitalopram.html
[3] Lexapro (2002). FDA Approval Letter for Lexapro. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/nda/2002/21-445Lexapro_toc.cfm
[4] Lexapro (2012). DrugPatentWatch.com. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/DrugPatent/lexapro
[5] GoodRx (2023). Escitalopram Prices. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/escitalopram/
[6] FDA (2020). Biosimilars and Generics: What's the Difference? Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/biosimilars/what-are-biosimilars-and-generics