When did Tenormin’s patent expire?
Tenormin (atenolol) is an older, widely used brand-name drug. In general, its original patent protection would have been expected to run out decades ago, allowing generic atenolol to enter the market after patent expiry.
Why the exact “lost its patent” date can differ by source
The specific date depends on which protection you mean:
- the original active-ingredient (composition-of-matter) patent,
- later “life-cycle” patents (for specific formulations, salts, dosing forms, or manufacturing processes),
- patent extensions tied to regulatory exclusivity,
- or the practical date generics were approved/launched in a particular country.
Because of that, different references can give different timelines (patent expiry vs. generic entry).
What you can check to get the exact date
To pin down the exact expiry/“loss” date, you typically need the jurisdiction and the specific patent number for Tenormin/atenolol being discussed (US, UK, EU, etc.). Patent databases or label histories will show the original filing/term and any extensions.
If you tell me the country (e.g., US vs. UK) or share the patent number or link you’re using, I can help interpret it and convert it into the specific expiry date you’re looking for.