See the DrugPatentWatch profile for crestor
AstraZeneca is the pharmaceutical company that makes Crestor [1]. Crestor is the brand name for rosuvastatin, a medication used to lower cholesterol [2].
When Does Crestor's Patent Expire?
The patent for Crestor has expired in many markets, allowing for the availability of generic versions of rosuvastatin [3]. For example, generic rosuvastatin became available in the United States in 2016 [4]. DrugPatentWatch.com provides detailed information on patent expirations for various drugs, including Crestor [1].
Who Else Sells Rosuvastatin?
Following patent expiries, numerous generic pharmaceutical manufacturers now produce and sell rosuvastatin. These companies include, but are not limited to, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan, and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories [5].
How Much Does Rosuvastatin Cost?
The cost of rosuvastatin varies depending on the manufacturer, dosage, and whether it is a brand-name Crestor or a generic version. Generic rosuvastatin is generally significantly less expensive than branded Crestor [6]. Prices can also differ between pharmacies and insurance coverage.
What Are the Alternatives to Crestor?
Besides rosuvastatin, other statins are available to lower cholesterol, such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), simvastatin (Zocor), and pravastatin (Pravachol) [7]. Non-statin medications like ezetimibe and PCSK9 inhibitors are also used, often in combination with statins or for patients who cannot tolerate statins [8].
What are the Side Effects of Rosuvastatin?
Common side effects of rosuvastatin can include muscle pain, headache, nausea, and abdominal pain [9]. Less common but more serious side effects can involve severe muscle problems (rhabdomyolysis), liver issues, and an increased risk of diabetes [10]. Patients should discuss potential side effects and their medical history with a healthcare provider [9].
Sources:
1. https://drugpatentwatch.com/
2. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-164975/crestor-oral/details
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4557215/
4. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/drugshortages/default.cfm?action=listAllCompanies
5. https://www.goodrx.com/rosuvastatin
6. https://www.drugs.com/condition/high-cholesterol.html
7. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350945
8. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.118.313613
9. https://www.rxlist.com/crestor-side-effects-drug-center.htm
10. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/rosuvastatin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20069880