Generic Cipro HC

Until the patent for Cipro HC (ciprofloxacin/hydrocortisone) expires, a generic version will not be available. Although the active ingredients are often referred to as the generic name for a drug, technically, this is not correct. In addition, although Cipro HC and Ciprodex have one active ingredient in common, these medications are not interchangeable.

Cipro HC Antibiotic Information

Can I Buy Generic Cipro HC?

Cipro^® HC (ciprofloxacin/hydrocortisone) is a combination prescription ear drop used to treat otitis externa, commonly known as outer ear infections. It contains an antibiotic (ciprofloxacin) to treat the infection and a corticosteroid (hydrocortisone) to help reduce inflammation.

Cipro HC is made by Alcon. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Cipro HC from being manufactured in the United States.

When Will Generic Cipro HC Be Available?

Alcon holds the exclusive rights to market Cipro HC in the United States until June 2015. This is the earliest predictable date that a generic version could become available.

However, other circumstances could come up to extend or shorten this exclusivity period. This could include such things as lawsuits or other patents for specific Cipro HC uses. Once the drug goes off-patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Cipro HC product.

Is Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone a Generic Cipro HC?

No -- ciprofloxacin and hydrocortisone are the active ingredients in Cipro HC, not a generic version of it. What can be confusing is that oftentimes, the active ingredient of a drug is referred to as the "generic name."

The generic name is different from a generic version of a medicine. In order for there to be a generic version, the original medicine must have gone off-patent and another company besides the original manufacturer must make the product.

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