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Generic Chantix
There is currently no generic Chantix available in the United States. The patent for the drug expires in November 2018, which means that other companies can start manufacturing a generic version at that time. Since there are no generic versions and the brand-name version can be expensive, a patient assistance program is available for people who cannot afford Chantix.
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Chantix™ (varenicline tartrate) is a prescription medication used to help people quit smoking. It does not contain nicotine and is the first medication of its kind.
Chantix is made by Pfizer, Inc. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Chantix from being manufactured in the United States.
The first patent for Chantix currently expires in November 2018. This is the earliest possible date that a generic version of Chantix could become available.
However, other circumstances could come up to extend this exclusivity period beyond 2018. This could include such things as other patents for specific Chantix uses or lawsuits. Once the patent expires, several companies will likely begin manufacturing a generic Chantix drug.
As a relatively new medication without any generic versions, Chantix can be expensive. If you do not have insurance coverage (or if your insurance does not cover Chantix) and you cannot afford it, you may qualify to receive help in paying for Chantix from Pfizer. Ask your healthcare provider about the patient assistance program for this drug.
It is important to keep in mind that even though Chantix may be expensive, cigarettes are also expensive. If the medication works for you, you will save a substantial amount of money in the long run.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD