As Elmiron users in the US can attest, it can cost hundreds of dollars a month if you lack drug prescription coverage. To have that monthly fee reduced to, say $25 per month, would be outstanding. Of course, the challenge is profitability. Elmiron is only FDA approved oral drug for the treatment of interstitial cystitis thus it doesn't have a large market share. Will another pharmaceutical company step in and try to capture the market? At this point, we're not aware of any companies who are considering making Elmiron in a generic form. But, we hope so.

We are certainly grateful to Ortho McNeil and its predecessors ALZA and IVAX, who have played a critical role in the education of physicians about interstitial cystitis diagnosis and treatments. We would not be where we are today in terms of public awareness without their tireless PR efforts and sponsorship of various IC events. That said, having the medication be more affordable means that more patients may be able to try it.

Earlier this Fall, the ICN wrote about a dozen letters to various Senators and Representatives urging that the patent for Elmiron be extended. I will be honest in saying that I was torn. I like the idea of a cheaper, more affordable version. In the long run, I think patients will benefit from a generic version But, I chose to support a patent extension simply because I was fearful that no other pharmaceutical companies would step forward. The last thing I want to see is Elmiron disappearing from the market. It appears, though, that those patent extension efforts have failed. We'll let you know if we hear otherwise.

I was thrilled to see the ICA announcement that Ortho McNeil will continue to manufacture Elmiron after the patent expires. This is great news!

So, whether you are for or against brand names vs. generics, time marches on and a New Year brings new developments and opportunities. Your thoughts??

Jill