Generic medications are a chemical copy of the original brand, with the same active ingredients. Generics are also available at a lower cost than brand-name medications. In fact, generic drugs cost 85 percent Trusted Source less than the brand version on average.
FDA gives patent and exclusivity Trusted Source protection to brand manufacturers to allow them to profit from their innovation and research for several years. During this time, no generics can compete with the brand.
Once the patent has expired, generics can enter the market through a shortened FDA approval process. Generic medications need to meet the same quality, safety, and effectiveness standards as brands.
Most active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and generic medications are made outside the U.S. in countries like China, India, and various other countries.
Generic medications go through testing for quality, strength, purity, and potency to show effectiveness before approval by FDA. They must have the same active ingredient and provide the same benefits.
There are a few differences, however. Generic and brand medications don’t look the same. Generics may have slightly different inactive ingredients (fillers, binders, flavors, etc.). These don’t affect how the medicine works.
Cost is one of the main reasons a generic is the better choice. Generic medications are a lot less expensive than their brand counterpart.
Data Trusted Source indicates the use of low-cost generics improves health outcomes, and one reason is people taking generics are more likely to take their prescribed medications.
Medication affordability is one of the biggest concerns for everyone today.