What is the difference between generic and brand name drugs?

Question

Why generic drugs are very inexpensive? Are they less in quality when compared to brand name drugs?

Answer 1

No. They have to be exactly the same in order for them to be approved by the FDA. Some people just HAVE to have brand names, but insurance companies are clamping down on that. Since there's no difference, why should they pay for brand names? Some medications do not have a generic yet, if that's the case, your insurance will cover it.

Answer 2

The generics are the same exact formula used in the brand names. The patent on the brand name lapses and the drug companies that make generics are thereby able to produce the drugs at a much lesser cost.

You are only paying for the name, not quality by purchasing brand name drugs.

Answer 3

You find generic drugs when the brand name company's patent runs out. It means that other companies can then begin producing the same product as well. You're buying the same thing, just read the ingredients, you just don't have to pay for the name, advertising and R&D that goes into the name brand's product.

Answer 4

usually nothing. the active ingredient is the one that makes the difference, and it is the same stuff whether generic or own brand. sometimes the generic ones are manufactured abroad, or for export (known as a parallell import) which makes them cheaper. this way the pharmacies make more of a profit and you still get your drugs either way. its not really a quality issue, though you might prefer the shape or even the taste- any differences will be purely cosmetic.

Answer 5

My doctor and my pharmacist both said nothing except the price. Ambian for instance should be going generic within the next year.

Answer 6

The price is the only difference.