Generic drugs are common due to the possibility of providing the same benefits as brand-name drugs but for less money. Yet, many patients find themselves questioning whether the drug provides the same safety and efficacy as its original. Learning about the principles of generics can help in the use of such drugs.
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What Are Generic Medicines?
The generic drug contains the identical active substance that the branded drug contains. The mode of action of the two drugs should be similar as well.It is worth noting that the appearance of the generic drug may differ from that of the brand-name product. The color, shape, inactive substances, packaging, or naming of the drugs may not be the same.
What Makes a Generic Medicine Equivalent?
A generic drug requires meeting certain criteria before gaining approval. It usually has to demonstrate that the active substance is taken up in the same manner by the body as the already approved brand-name medicine.
| Feature | Brand Medicine | Generic Medicine |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Same | Same |
| Main medical effect | Expected | Expected to be the same |
| Quality standards | Required | Required |
| Appearance | Brand-specific | May vary |
| Cost | Often expensive | Often cheap |
Are Generic Medicines Safe?
Quality and Safety Standards
Generic medicines that have been approved have to conform to certain regulatory standards. They undergo testing and monitoring to ensure that they satisfy the standards of potency, purity, stability, and manufacturing quality.
Nevertheless, just like branded drugs, generic drugs can result in side effects. This will depend on the particular drug, dosage, other drugs being used, and the patient’s medical condition.
Inactive Ingredients Can Differ
There could be various inactive ingredients used in generic drugs; for example, there could be artificial colorings, preservatives, or binders. However, such inactive ingredients do not affect the main effects of the medicine; nevertheless, certain allergic reactions have to be taken into consideration.
Are Generic Medicines Effective?
The active ingredient of a licensed generic drug will act in a similar manner to the brand-name drug. As such, one can generally expect the same therapeutic effects when taking the drug at the prescribed dose.
There are many health conditions for which generic drugs are licensed, including:
- Hypertension
- Infection
- Diabetes
- Pain
- Allergy
- Depression
- Cholesterol
Why Are Generic Medicines Cheaper?
Generic drugs tend to be cheaper because pharmaceutical companies do not have to go through all the development stages that were involved in developing a new drug. Competition among manufacturers is one way to achieve this reduction in cost.
Reduced cost may make the necessary medication affordable and allow patients to take it.
What Should You Ask Your Physician or Pharmacist?
In case you have any doubts about changing from a brand-name drug to a generic one, contact your health care provider:
- Is the generic appropriate for me?
- Does it have the same active ingredients?
- Could the other ingredients affect me in any way?
- Should I expect any changes in side effects?
- Is the dose the same?
Bottom Line
Generic drugs are produced in a way that offers essentially the same medical benefits as branded drugs but usually at lower prices. Generics have to pass some quality and safety standards, despite their different look and excipients. You should always take your medications as per your prescription or the recommendations of your pharmacist. In case of doubts regarding the switch to generics, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist. Wondering whether a generic medicine is right for you? Ask your medical practitioner or pharmacist about its active ingredients, safety, effectiveness, and probable side effects before making a switch. Follow Medipedia for more interesting news and updates from the world of medicine that will help you choose the right medicines depending on your health requirements. Never take any drug without consulting a doctor to prevent side effects and other health concerns.