Generic vs branded drugs

The differences between generic and branded drugs have always been a point of confusion among drug consumers. Many people feel that generic drugs are an inferior version of branded drugs but that's not the case. Generic drugs as well as branded drug share the same quality, strength, safety, dosage etc. The only difference between the two lies in their price and looks.

Generic drugs can be used as an alternative of branded drugs like Viagra, since both these drugs use the same active ingredients, they share the same pros and cons. Generic drugs are prepared according to FDA requirement and therefore they have the same quality, strength, purity and stability as brand-name drugs.

Brands and Generics A Side by Side Comparison
	Brand Name	A-Rated Generic
FDA review to show active ingredient is equivalent to original
FDA inspection of manufacturing facilities
FDA reviews reports of adverse reactions
FDA reviews drug labeling
Extensive research and development investments
Expensive marketing & advertising
Patent protection
Better value

The manufacturers of Generic drugs don't have the investment cost necessary for the development of a new drug. Branded drugs are developed under patent protection. The patent protects the investment-including research, development, marketing, and promotion-by giving the company the sole right to sell the drug while it is in effect. As patents near expiration, manufacturers can apply to the FDA to sell generic versions.

The generic manufacturers do not have the same development cost therefore they sell their drugs at substantial discount. The second factor that affects the price of generic drug is the fact that they face a great competition, which keeps the price down. Today, almost half of all prescriptions are filled with generic drugs.

Generic drugs maintain the similar level of standard as that of branded drugs; the food and drug association does not allow manufacturers to produce drugs in imperfect conditions. Around 3,500 inspections a year are conducted by the FDA to ensure the demanded standards. Generic firms have facilities comparable to those of brand-name firms. 50% of the brand-name firms are linked generic drug production. They frequently make copies of their own or other brand-name drugs but sell them without the brand name.

According to the U.S trademark law forbids generic drugs to copy the looks of the brand name drugs. But their excellence need not be doubted because they contain all the active ingredients of brand-name drugs.