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FDA Approves First Ibandronate (Boniva®) Generics
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first generic versions of Boniva® (ibandronate), a once-monthly prescription tablet used for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in women after menopause. Ibandronate is in a class of drugs called bisphosphonates that help increase bone mass and reduce the chance of broken bones.
Generic drugs approved by the FDA have the same high quality and strength as brand-name drugs and provide a lower cost alternative. The generic manufacturing and packaging sites must pass the same quality standards as those of brand name drugs, but generic versions can cost anywhere from 30 to 80 percent less than the original branded drug.
Apotex Inc., Orchid Healthcare and Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. are the manufacturers that have gained FDA approval to make generic 150 milligram ibandronate tablets. The generic versions are not available for patient use yet, but we will update the NOF website soon with information about when the generic versions will be widely available through pharmacies. As always, talk to your healthcare provider and ask about whether generic medicines are safe and appropriate for you before making any changes to the medications you take.
The latest
Last week, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Panel voted that the risks of calcitonin salmon outweigh the benefits for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The panel joined health authorities around the world in reviewing the drug’s safety after two recent studies showed slightly higher rates of cancer among patients taking calcitonin. The panel voted against continued use of the drug by a narrow majority, pointing out that it has not been found very effective in preventing bone fractures.
In today's Washington Post article "Calcium and Vitamin D findings show that caring for your bones can be compilicated," NOF's senior clinical director, Dr. Felicia Cosman helps clear up some of the confusion around the recent and conflicting research on calcium and vitamin D. She says: "It’s confusing, even for doctors. But there’s a common thread: None of the heart or kidney risks were associated with calcium from food."
CIRCA, the leading international buyer of fine jewelry, diamonds and watches, announced a new partnership with NOF at a Generations of Strength luncheon at the Friars Club in New York City on February 26. To kick-off the partnership, CIRCA’s Acting CEO Mary L. Forté presented NOF Executive Director and CEO Amy Porter with a check for $25,000, to support NOF’s mission.
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