Generic Xanax XR

Because all of the patents for Xanax XR have expired, generic versions of the drug are now available. Generic Xanax XR is available in four strengths, and the FDA has assigned an "AB" rating to the medication, meaning it should be equivalent in quality to brand-name Xanax XR. However, generic Xanax XR may contain different inactive ingredients (such as fillers or dyes), which may cause problems for people with allergies.

 

Generic Xanax XR: An Overview

Xanax XR® (alprazolam XR) is a prescription medication approved to treat panic disorder. It is part of a group of medications known as benzodiazepines.
 
Xanax XR is made by Pfizer, Inc. However, the patents for the medication have expired, and generic versions are now available.
 

Strengths of Generic Xanax XR

Generic Xanax XR tablets are available in four strengths:
 
  • Alprazolam XR 0.5 mg
  • Alprazolam XR 1 mg
  • Alprazolam XR 2 mg
  • Alprazolam XR 3 mg.
     

Who Makes Generic Xanax XR?

Generic Xanax XR is made by the following companies:
 
  • Actavis Elizabeth
  • Barr Laboratories
  • Greenstone
  • Mylan Pharmaceuticals
  • Sandoz, Inc.
  • Teva Pharmaceuticals.
     

Is Generic Alprazolam XR as Good as Xanax XR?

Many people wonder whether generic alprazolam XR is as good as brand-name Xanax XR.
 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 generic versions 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. All of the generic alprazolam XR versions currently available have an "AB" rating, meaning they are considered equivalent to Xanax XR.
 
However, generic medications are allowed to have different inactive ingredients than the brand-name medication. This might include fillers, dyes, or other ingredients, which could cause problems for people with certain allergies or sensitivities.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;