Generic Drugs Definition

When the patent on brand name drugs held by the innovators and manufacturers expire, those drugs are now-simplistically-public property, and other companies can manufacture versions or copies of them. These copies are the generic forms of the original name brand drugs.

The chemical compositions, active ingredients, dosage, effects, side effects, effectiveness, route of administration and use of the generic version of drugs are exactly the same as their brand name counterparts-there is no difference at all. This similarity is one condition of their manufacture. Since they are not original drugs, they are not allowed to diverge on the factors that really matter pharmacologically.

These drugs are easier to obtain and relatively cheaper because of the ease of their manufacturing process. When a new drug is formulated in the lab, it has to go through a series of drug approval channels and testing to ensure its level of efficacy, lethal dose, and a host of other factors that need to be marked off before the drug can be marketed for consumption.

Jumping through all these (albeit very necessary) hoops is what makes brand name drugs relatively expensive when compared to their generic versions. Generic drugs, being copies, are just building on the template already provided by the brand name manufacturers. They do not have to go through any testing and approval except the FDA approval that makes sure it is up to code.

This does not mean that they are not as tightly regulated as brand name drugs-they have a specific code that they have to adhere to, making sure that they are safe for the patients who will need them. This is why there is no pharmacological difference between generic drugs and their name brand counterparts.

Similarities

· They have the same chemical composition, effects, and FDA approval as name brand drugs.

· The active ingredients, which are the main component of the drugs, are the same and have the same chemical properties.

Differences

· When talking about generic drugs, they are usually not capitalised unlike brand names (e.g. metformin as opposed to Glucophage).

· The inactive ingredients in the drugs might differ, but that does not change the effect of the drugs.

· Generic drugs are much less expensive than brand name counterparts are.

· The generic version of some drugs might look different from the brand name original.

Conclusion

Doctors prescribe generic drugs because of their relative cheapness. They are a great option for patients who are on a budget, and will save them money without cutting back on the effects and intended use of the drugs themselves. It is really the best of both worlds.

The caveat is that, as with all drugs, these generic drugs should be taken only when prescribed by a qualified health professional, and taken according to the dosage. Side effects should always be reported for proper documentation and if possible, termination of the medication. This is especially important when taking generic drugs, as some patients can react to inactive ingredients like lactose used in the drugs.