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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
The National Osteoporosis Foundation has named Barbara Hannah Grufferman as its first Bone Health Ambassador. In this newly-established role, Grufferman, a well-known advocate for healthy and positive living, will dedicate her time, talent and energy to raise awareness for osteoporosis and the importance of building strong bones for life.
Thanks to a generous gift from The Samuel J. & Ethel LeFrak Charitable Trust, the National Osteoporosis Foundation met its Generations of Strength fundraising goal one year early. NOF launched the Generations of Strength initiative in September 2011 with the goal of raising $2 million in two years to improve patient care for the most vulnerable – those who have broken bones due to osteoporosis – and to protect future generations from the disease.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), the nation’s leading health organization dedicated to preventing osteoporosis and broken bones, has named Claire Gill as its Senior Director of Marketing, Consumer and Corporate Outreach. Gill brings extensive experience in public relations and marketing communications to this newly-established role.
