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Generic Drugs
What is a generic drug?
A generic drug (pl. generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is bioequivalent to a brand name drug with respect to pharmacokinetic and
pharmacodynamic properties, but is normally sold for a lower price. Generic medicines must contain the same active ingredient at the same strength
as the "innovator" brand, be bioequivalent, and are required to meet the same pharmacopoeial requirements for the preparation. By extension,
therefore, generics are identical in dose, strength, route of administration, safety, efficacy, and intended use. - from Wikipedia
A generic drug is identical, or bioequivalent to a brand name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality,
performance characteristics and intended use. - from FDA site
In short they are for all practical purposes the same thing.
Why do they cost less?
Generics are typically sold at a substantial cost discount to the branded product. A good portion of this probably results from the fact
that the branded drug has to recoup research, development, and marketing cost as quickly as possible while still in the patent period. Once the
patent expires, generics can be produced. Sometimes the original developing company will produce their own generic or license their own product
to be marketed and branded by generic companies. Competition from the number of products in the market will also drive prices down.
Are they safe?
For the most part generics are exactly the same as their branded counterparts. Any changes would require additional research and clinical trials.
Patent rules are different in coutries around the world (in the case that the country even has any patent regulations in place) so you might want to
stick to U.S. Pharmacies who are under the regulation of the FDA who must approve generics as well as the first to market medications. They also have
stringent rules on how these drugs are produced which may or may not be the case outside of the United States. Urgentmeds.com uses U.S. suppliers only.
If they are the same, why do they sometimes look different?
Some inactive ingredients may be changed without affecting how the drug works and it's safety.
I'm still hesitant.
Check with your doctor, physician, or healthcare professional first and talk to them about any questions or concerns that you might have. The FDA also
maintains a list of approved generic drugs, those on trial, and a good deal of information on the topic online.
U.S. Drugs are Cheaper and Safer. A study done by the FDA.
New Study Finds That Authorized Generics Can Lead To Lower Drug Prices, Overall Savings to Health Care System A study done by the Phrma.org (will open in new window).
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