Is It A Bottom-Line Decision?
Jun 25 '01
The Bottom Line Generic medicine is cheaper, and works the same as the brand-name versions. To me, it is an easy choice.
There has been a debate raging for years about whether generic medications have the same effects as the original brand-name version. Many people refuse to use the generic alternative, stating their belief that the brand-name version is stronger, and more effective.
To give a little background, let me explain how the drug approval process works. When a major pharmaceutical company receives approval for a new drug, they have patent protection over that product. This gives them a 20 year window of protection. Once the 20 years have passed, other companies can produce their version of the product; however, these secondary companies cannot use the commercial name of the original product. They can use a similar name, but not the original. These companies must also meet FDA approval for the manufacture and sale of their generic products.
It is well-known that generics cost significantly less than their name-brand counterparts. Some suggest that this reduced cost must mean that the generic does not have the same amount of medicine, and must be less effective. Most generics are 60% less costly than the brand-name drugs, but they contain the same ingredients in the same quantities as the original. The difference comes from research cost. The drug company that originally produced the drug has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to research the drug. Once it comes on the market, they know that they have a twenty-year window to recoup their research dollars, and make a good profit on the drug. Since they are protected from competition on this product, they simply set the price high to get as much back as they can.
If you are not sure about generics, do some research for yourself. Ask your local pharmacist. I did, and she told me that the generic alternative is exactly the same product. She said that buying the name-brand when a generic is available is "throwing your money away". In looking at articles on the internet, I found that there are differing opinions amongst the experts. Some feel that generics are okay, while others think they are terrible. Of course, the major drug companies will tell you that generic drugs are worthless.
Personally, I always buy the generic when it is available. The main reason is the cost. Medicine is expensive, and if you insist on the name-brand products, you can spend an awful lot of money on them. In my experience, the generic drugs do the same job as the name-brand. Like most people, I want to avoid a trip to the doctor at all costs, so I look to the OTC medication to make me feel better. I always get generics, and have had no bad experience whatsoever. The generics get results at a much lower price, which makes them an attractive choice for me.
Everyone has to make their own choice on whether to use generics or name-brand drugs. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor or pharmacist and get some answers. Then make the decision that is right for you and your family.
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