Generic Accolate

The first patent for Accolate (zafirlukast) has expired, and generic versions are now available. All of the generic versions of Accolate are considered equivalent to the brand-name drug. However, generic medications may contain different inactive ingredients, such as fillers or dyes, that could cause problems for people with certain sensitivities.
 

An Overview of Generic Accolate

Accolate® (zafirlukast) is a prescription medication used to prevent asthma attacks. It is part of a group of medications called leukotriene modifiers.
 
Brand-name Accolate is manufactured by AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals. However, the first patent for Accolate expired in September 2010, and a generic version is now available.
 

Generic Accolate Availability

Generic Accolate tablets are available in the following strengths:
 
  • Zafirlukast 10 mg
  • Zafirlukast 20 mg.
     
Generic Accolate is made by Dr. Reddy's Laboratories.
 

Is Generic Zafirlukast as Good as Accolate?

All generic medications must undergo certain tests to compare them to brand-name medications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) then looks at these tests to decide if the generics are equivalent to the brand-name medications and assigns a rating to each one.
 
An "AB" rating means that the FDA has determined that a generic medication is equivalent to a brand-name medication. Generic zafirlukast has an "AB" rating, meaning it should be equivalent to Accolate.
 
However, generic medications are allowed to have different inactive ingredients than the brand-name medication. This might include fillers, dyes, or other ingredients that may cause problems for people with allergies or sensitivities. 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
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