Generic vs Brand Name Drugs

Generally speaking, generics are clones of brand name drugs whose patents, which legally protect them from competition, have expired after being on the market for 10 to 14 years. The government grants patents to encourage innovation. There would be no incentive to develop a costly new drug if within months a competitor copies it for next to nothing.

In an effort to maximize their profits and extend their research & development investments, brand name pharmaceutical manufacturers create the false impression that patented, brand name drugs are superior to generic ones. This often successful attempt to continue reaping profits after their patents have expired by marketing their drugs as somehow better than generics has the side effect of creating confusion in the minds of consumers.

But this is not the case: generics are every bit as pure, potent and safe as brand name ones. In fact the Food and Drug Administration regulates generic and brand name drugs equally, and all generics by law must contain the same active chemicals as the brand name counterparts. Generic versions are available for about half of all prescription drugs and some brand name drugs regularly become available as generics. Prescribed for many years and thus well known by the medical community, generics are considered tried and true. Their side effects and contra-indications are better known than brand new drugs, whose novelty may cause problems. In many classes of drugs, researchers are learning that older medicines now available as generics work just as well as new ones.

Confusion often arises in consumers’ minds when generic versions become available for brand name drugs. Marketing driven brand name drugs have more memorable and easier to pronounce names, while generic drugs are typically scientifically accurate but burdened by technical and jargon-laden names. Additionally, brand name drugs employ unique shapes and colors to differentiate them from others while generics typically have simple white round forms. The net result is that patients tend to associate the efficacy of drugs with their appearance and names, and switching without proper knowledge and information raises doubts.

Naturally consumers wonder if switching to a less expensive and cheaper-looking pill affect the treatment of their condition.Another reason for confusion is inertia. Due to constant marketing by the pharmaceutical industry and the fact that brand names drugs were first on the scene, doctors tend to continue prescribing name brand drugs even after generic versions become available. However, in every state and most countries, the pharmacist can make the switch to the generic version if the patient asks for it or if the patient agrees to it after being asked by the pharmacist.Even though health insurance covers much of the cost of drugs, most people tend to stick to their brand name counterparts even though the cost saving are significant when compounded. Switching to generic drugs helps control ever-soaring health care costs and insurance premiums. On average, the price for the generic drugs cost 66% less than brand name versions, making savings for everyone substantial. Those lacking insurance coverage have a special incentive to work with their providers to choose the most affordable drugs. Switching to a generic version helps people pay for needed drugs without financial hardship or strain. Ultimately, being informed is the best medicine; inquire whether the prescription is for a brand name or generic drug, and learn why it has been prescribed.

In summary

When a generic drug product is approved, it has met rigorous standards established by the FDA with respect to identity, strength, quality, purity and potency. Some variability can and does occur during manufacturing, for both brand name and generic drugs. When a drug, generic or brand name, is mass produced, very small variations in purity, size, strength and other parameters are permitted. FDA puts limits on how much variability in composition or performance of a drug is acceptable.Generic drugs are required to have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the brand name (or reference) product.

All generic manufacturing, packaging and testing sites must pass the same quality standards as those of brand name drugs and the generic products must meet the same exacting specifications as any innovator brand name product.

In fact, many generic drugs are made in the same plants as innovator brand name drug products.If an innovator of a brand name drug switches drug production to an alternative manufacturing site, or they change formulation of their brand name drug, these companies are held to the same rigorous manufacturing requirements as those that apply to generic drug companies.

Scott Josephson, MS, RD is Director of Operations at Hippocrates Wellness and a national level conference speaker throughout the US and Canada, a recipient of numerous awards and a frequently published author covering a wide range of industry topics. In 2006 Scott was nominated and awarded the Director of the Year at an industry conference for his excellence in teaching continuing education units. In addition to several certifications, he has a master’s degree from the University of Miami and is on the international advisory boards of Can Fit Pro and the American Fitness Professionals and Associates. His work portfolio includes Geraldo Rivera, Wimbledon Champion Chris Evert and athletes from the New York Giants and New York Mets.

Vol 29 Issue 3 Page 30