In the last couple of years, the Indian healthcare landscape has seen a huge transformation and of the many changes, one that stand out truly is the increasing acceptance of the use of the generic medicines. You must have seen the rise of the shops of wholesale generic medicine in and around your neighborhood. This is because these medicines, which are bioequivalent to their branded counterparts, have the same therapeutic benefits but at a fraction of the price. People have now grown more aware of the rising medical expenses, and with the digital convenience, more Indians are now opting for these generic options.
However, there is always a question of trust. The biggest question about medicine is whether they are safe and how you can ensure that you are buying the right one.
So, let’s have a walk-through in this blog to understand what the things are that you need to keep in mind while making your next online purchase of generic medicines.
Why are generic medicines gaining popularity?
For decades, the branded medicines have dominated the Indian pharmaceutical market. However, today you will know and see more about the government initiatives through the Jan Aushadhi Kendras which are promoting the generic drug use. They have encouraged a shift in the use of wholesale generic medicine. People have begun to realise that the hefty price tag on branded medicine does not necessarily mean that they will be of a better quality. The generic medicines will have the same active ingredients, strength, dosage and also the route of administration as the branded versions. But what makes them cost effective is the absence of the original research and the affiliated marketing expense that comes with the pharmaceutical companies which incurred the patent of those drugs. Affordability factor is one of the biggest things that is causing these generic medicines to become popular. When combined with increased digital access and awareness campaigns, Indian consumers are now getting more aware to the alternatives that do not compromise on the efficacy of the medicines.
Understanding certificates and licensing
Before you buy the generic medicines online, it is very important that you check for the proper certifications and licensing of both product and the platform. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization is the key regulatory body overseeing the approval of medicines in India. Generic drugs must meet the stringent bioequivalent standards, which will ensure they work just as effectively as the branded ones. When you are buying from the legitimate E-pharmacies or the online platforms, it should be licensed under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940. You need to look for a valid registration number and details like the pharmacist license on the website. There are some trusted platforms that are affiliated and there are some certified platforms by National Accreditation Board for hospitals and healthcare (NABH) providers. These credentials will add a layer of credibility and will also ensure that they are compliant with quality and safety standards.
Price advantage and wider availability
One of the most compelling reasons why more and more people are turning to online platforms for generic medicines is that it will give a significant cost saving. On average, generic drugs can be about 30 to 90% cheaper than the branded ones, depending on the therapeutic category for patients who have chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes or asthma, their monthly medication can lead up to a substantial price. This generic medicine can be a game changer. Moreover, when you are buying online, it will open up access to a wider catalog of medicines. For smaller towns or rural areas, which often face the shortage or unavailability of certain medications, the e-pharmacies can actually help to bridge this gap. But not just the e-pharmacies, you can also find them in over-the-counter shops which allow you to order and receive the required medications at your doorstep. In fact, the new stores give you a discount, auto refill options, cash back, and there are different subscription models available all which lead to a more affordable way of buying medicine.
Are generic medicines safe?
Obviously, the most common concern among first-time users is whether these generic medicines are equally safe and efficient as their branded counterparts. The truth is that generic drugs are rigorously tested and must demonstrate the bioequivalence of their branded counterparts before they are approved. This means they work the same way in the body and provide the same clinical benefits, however, the key lies in where and how you are buying them. Not all pharmacies are created equally, so you need to avoid the platforms that do not ask for prescriptions, especially the online platforms or the ones that offer unusually steep discounts, because they might be too good to be true. You need to stick to a licensed pharmacy that has transparent policies, has verified pharmacist support, and also has good customer reviews. And the basic thumb rule is to check for the expiration date, manufacturer details and the batch numbers before use. For added peace of mind, there are some platforms which offer QR code verification where can also check to confirm the authenticity before consumption.
Things to remember before buying generic medicines online
- Go for a trusted website that has its license and displays proper pharmacist information
- Only buy medicines that are CDSCO-approved
- Make sure to use platforms that require a valid prescription
- Do not skip the user reviews and ratings of the product and platform
- Check the manufacturing and expiry dates once you receive them
- Do not share any personal or payment details on unknown sites
As India continues to make strides in digital healthcare, the availability and acceptance of generic medicines are growing stronger, and that too willfully. By combining affordability and accessibility, these generic drugs will offer a real solution to one of India’s most pressing problems, the high cost of quality healthcare. However, when buying generic medicines, which are scientifically proven, you also need to be aware of certain factors before making informed choices. We live in a world where convenience is king, but do not let shortcuts cost your health. Choose a smart and safe way so that you can have better health at a better price.
