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:

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:

Price benefits

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. 

Availability

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.

Safety and quality

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

Drugs advisory board of india approved

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.

Insurance coverage

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)

Conclusion

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. 

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.