Many people are concerned about the safety and effectiveness of generic drugs, but is it really any different from brand name drugs? They think that generic drugs are not as reliable as brand name drugs just because they are cheap and more affordable. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that generic drugs have to be bioequivalent to the brand name drugs. This means that generic drugs should have the same dosage, active ingredients, effects and side effects, bioavailability, strength, and stability as the brand-name medications.
Generic drugs are mainly cheaper because pharmaceutical companies do not have to spend so much to develop a new drug, research and test its effectiveness, and apply for an approval from the FDA. When a drug company develops a new drug, they can apply for a patent to secure their right to manufacture and sell the drug. Once the patent expires, it gives other manufacturers the chance to apply for the right to produce and sell the generic equivalence of the drug. This is the major factor that brings down the prices of generic drugs. Unlike in companies that produce prescription medications, the competition between manufacturers that sell generic drugs actually help bring the prices down.
Here are a few interesting myths about generic drugs:
Myth # 1: Generic drugs aren’t as reliable as brand name drugs.
Fact: Generic drugs are required to have the same bioavailability and effectiveness as the brand name
drugs, meaning they have to work the same way as brand name drugs.
Myth # 2: Generic drugs are more likely to cause side effects.
Fact: The FDA receives reports of adverse reaction related to the active ingredient in the drug. Also, some
people might have a reaction when switching medications.
Myth # 3: Drug companies aren’t making as much money when you buy generic drugs.
Fact: Some generic drugs are actually manufactured by bigger companies who also produce and sell brand
name drugs.
Sources:
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=46204
http://www.worstpills.org/public/page.cfm?op_id=47 http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/UnderstandingGenericDrugs/ucm167991.htm
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Generics are the way to go...there is a great new website called 'Medtipster' that allows you locate low-cost generics from reputable pharmacies in your area. You just go to Medtipster's homepage and type in the medication you need, the dosage and your zip code and the site directs you to the least expensive retailer. Google search "Medtipster" and check out their site.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful link, thanks for that offering. Generics can save quite a bit of money. Sometimes, when money is not as much of a factor, some people prefer the effects they get with generic, sometimes people swear they like the effects of brand name better. Makes you wonder if it is a placebo effect or something of merit.
ReplyDeleteDo the FDA rules apply to generic over-the-counter medications as well? I've always assumed they do, but when most people talk about brand names vs. generic they're talking about prescription drugs. I know some people who will gladly take generic prescriptions, but are more hesitant about buying Wal-Mart brand Sudafed.
ReplyDeleteEmily, yes, the same applies to over the counter medications because the FDA regualates that as well. The only think that the FDA does not regulate that some people consider "medicine" is herbs and supplements. They are actually considered a "cosmetic" and are not regulated. The Walmart brand of Sudafed contains the same active components of the Brand Name. The only thing that differs is the inert fillers. Again, some people swear that name brand works better, as for myself, I prefer the Walmart brand Claritin. What about you? Do you have any personal preference or experience?
ReplyDelete