Some people worry that because the generic version costs so
much less than the brand-name drug, that the quality or effectiveness of the
medication might be compromised in order to save money. However, the generic
versions cost less not because of cutting corners, but because the manufacturer
has not had to pay for researching, developing, and marketing a new medication.
The bulk of the expenses for drug manufacturers come from research,
development, and promotion of the drug, and companies that develop new drugs
are given a patent. The patent usually lasts for 7 years and allows them to
sell the drug exclusively until it expires. When patents near expiration, other
manufacturers can request permission to create and sell generic forms of the
medication. Since they don’t have the startup expenses of development, they can
sell the drug less expensively. In addition, competition between various
companies who manufacture generic versions can drive the price even lower.
It is a myth that generic medications are made in inferior
facilities or that they are poorer in quality to brand name medicines. The FDA
also regulates the facilities that make medications and all must meet the same
stringent standards. In fact, many manufacturers make both generic and
brand-name drugs, so a lot of the generic versions you may use are created in
exactly the same facility as the brand name drugs.
There is also no evidence that there are any differences in
rates of side effects between generic and brand name products.
Author Bio:
Dr. Matt Ramirez graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Human Biology in 2004 and received his Doctor of Chiropractic Degree in 2006. He specializes in auto injury recovery and rehabilitation and has enhanced and improved thousands of lives as well as treated people of all ages over the years. He is also an expert in health and wellness, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and more...
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