On March 2, 2010, Impax Laboratories, Inc. launched the generic version of Boehringer Ingelheim’s Flomax® (tamsulosin) in the United States.
A patent litigation settlement allowed the launch of generic tamsulosin on March 2 prior to the expiration of pediatric exclusivity on April 27, 2010.
 
Flomax is an alpha adrenoceptor antagonist that is indicated for treating the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Flomax is not indicated for treating hypertension.

·Formulary status: Flomax is currently preferred on Medco’s standard formulary. Flomax will move to non-preferred status once the generic is available. The generic tamsulosin will be a preferred medication on the standard formulary.
·Pricing: Not available.
·Availability at retail: During the week of March 2, 2010.
·Availability at mail: During the week of March 2, 2010.

Implications: Impax Laboratories, Inc.’s first-time generic for Flomax was launched on March 2, 2010. Generic tamsulosin is an alpha adrenoceptor that is indicated for treating the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is anticipated that there will only be one FDA-approved generic initially.