The Secret Life Of Generic Drugs
There seems to be a lot of mystery revolving around generic drugs, but they are not as mysterious as they seem. Basically, they are copies of brand named drugs. The more scientific term is bioequivalent. According to the FDA, generics must possess the same dose requirements and overall quality of the innovator drug. The generics must have their own distinctive look and name, however.
Generics and their innovator both share the same active ingredient, but they may or may not differ in their inactive ingredients. Consumers must be able to tell the difference between the two, therefore packaging and the actual look and taste of the drug will differ.
When a patent runs out on brand named drugs their lower priced replicas can enter the market and join in on the competition. They enjoy a lower price because the major brand companies have taken on all of the initial start up and research and development costs. Generics have to perform secondary testing both on the chemistry of the product as well as the marketing costs associated to introducing it into the market, but overall their costs are substantially lower.
Safety has always been a concern when dealing with non brand name drugs, but the FDA has given them the seal of approval. And although most doctors still prefer to prescribe name brands, there are a growing number of physicians who are recommending the generic alternative. Safety is an issue when taking either type of drug. Do your research and consult a doctor or pharmacist with any concerns.
Lower cost is the main advantage generics have over brand items. Rising healthcare costs make them the only viable option for many consumers. They are essentially the same drugs with minor differences that do not affect the primary curative property of the treatment. This may be an alternative more users need to explore if cost is an issue.
It is interesting to note that many of the huge brand name companies produce their own line of generics. It is a competitive market and they too want their piece of the action. So they will produce generic drugs right alongside their brand named drugs and in this way impact both sides of the market. This is a little known fact that major companies prefer to keep undisclosed.
Due to their growing appeal, there are also companies that make only generics. They see there is a burgeoning market and they produce to supply the need. The cost of generic drugs is reported to average anywhere between fifty to sixty percent lower in cost to brand medicines. Many people cannot afford brand name prescription medications and over the counter drugs and it is necessary to tend to the needs of lower income patients.
So there is no true mystery in generic drugs. They are FDA approved and considered as safe as higher priced brand named drugs. As with any medication, there could be complications so always speak to a professional before making any changes in your medications. A safe consumer is a wise consumer.
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