Benefits Of Generic Medicines You Must Know
By Dr. Nikita Toshi +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikita Toshi
Last updated: Oct 25, 2024 Published on: Aug 25, 2022
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By Dr. Nikita Toshi +2 more
Table of Contents
Wondering what is generic medicine? Generic medicine is manufactured to be the same as a medicine that has already been authorised. It contains the same active ingredients as the originator, non-generic medicine. However, the name of the generic medicine, its appearance and its packaging can be different from those of the non-generic medicine.
A pharmaceutical company develops new medicines after extensive research and testing. The non-generic medicines are patent protected, which ensures that the company has the sole right to manufacture and sell the non-generic brand name medicine while the patent is in effect. When patents or other periods of exclusivity expire, other manufacturers or the same company can apply to develop and sell a generic version of the non-generic medicine. For more generic medicine information that will help you understand it better, we have listed below some of the advantages of generic medicines:
Generic medicine can be used for several health conditions. Listed below are some of the pros and cons of generic medicines:
Generic medicines are more affordable than non-generic medicines. You can save money significantly by purchasing generic medicines. These medicines are priced low because, unlike non-generic medicines, they do not have to redo the clinical trials of the active ingredient. Generic medicines are made with the same contents as non-generic medicines, which are already authorised and approved. Generic medicine manufacturers rarely spend money on advertising and marketing, which is another important way they keep their costs down.
It is easy to find a generic medicine equivalent. Patients do not need to investigate far to find alternatives to popular non-generic medicines. There are over 12,000 reliable generic medicines available for consumers at a budget-friendly price. In India, the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojna (PMBJP) has been established to create awareness among the public regarding generic medicines. Its vision is to provide all the commonly used generic medicines covering maximum e therapeutic groups to every citizen of India.
Generic medicines are similar to non-generic medicines; they are made with the same active substance and checked for safety and quality before getting licensed. Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in India procures medicines from the World Health Organisation-Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP), Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and CE Certified suppliers, as applicable, for ensuring the quality of the products. The medicines must meet strict guidelines of manufacturing and provide effective results.
Generic medicines are considered safe to use when they meet batch-to-batch requirements of quality, strength, and purity when compared to the original drug. They also need to follow good manufacturing practices and rules to get it approved as a ‘safe drug’.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Generic medicines manufacturing is closely monitored by The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation. The efficiency of the medications is tested to ensure the safety of the public. The problems related to the medicines are also investigated and they make recommendations to the manufacturing company, healthcare professionals and the public.
An added advantage of generic medicine is that they are usually covered by insurance companies due to its low cost. Most insurance companies will cover your generic medicine costs and you will not have to pay from your pocket. This can, however, vary depending on the insurance company and plan.
Generic drugs come on the market after a patent for a particular drug gets expire. A generic drug has the same active ingredients with the same strength when compared to the original drug.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
Generic medicines are cost-efficient for the healthcare system and completely safe for consumption. While there are several advantages of generic medicines, it is also important to note that self-medication is not recommended and if you must have generic medicines, consult the doctor to discuss your health condition and only purchase good quality generic medicines as prescribed.
Yes, generic medicines are considered good and effective. They are required to meet the same safety, efficacy, and quality standards as brand-name drugs, making them a reliable and often more affordable option for treatment.
Yes, generic medicines are as effective as branded medicines. They contain the same active ingredients and must meet the same regulatory standards for safety and efficacy, ensuring they provide similar therapeutic benefits.
While generic medicines are generally effective and affordable, potential disadvantages include variations in inactive ingredients, which may affect tolerability for some individuals. Additionally, generics may differ in appearance from brand-name drugs, which can sometimes lead to confusion.
Yes, it is possible for a generic medicine to cause an allergic reaction, particularly if it contains different inactive ingredients than the brand-name version. If an allergic reaction occurs, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
To verify the safety of a generic medicine, ensure it is from a reputable source and approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA. Your pharmacist or healthcare provider can also provide information about its safety.
Yes, generic prescription drugs are the same as their brand-name counterparts in terms of active ingredients, dosage, and therapeutic effects. They must meet the same standards for safety and efficacy, though they may differ in inactive ingredients and appearance.
Switching to a generic medicine should not affect your treatment as long as the generic is approved for the same use as the brand-name drug. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication.
Generic medicines generally carry the same risks as brand-name drugs. Any potential risks or side effects should be discussed with your healthcare provider, who can help manage and monitor your treatment.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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