We have a very fast-evolving healthcare landscape in today’s time; and, the generic medicines are getting more important than ever in making treatment affordable and accessible. Therefore, despite the increasing popularity and widespread of the availability, the myths and misconceptions are also getting popular amongst people. The myths often stem from lack of awareness. In this blog, let’s find out what some of the common myths about generic medications are.
Myth 1 – Generic medicines have inferior quality
If you ask any popular generic medicine supplier, you will know that this is one of the most common myths that go around. This is because generic medicines are cheaper and therefore, there is a perceived idea that they must be inferior in quality. The fact, however, is that generic medicines have the same active ingredients, dosage form, strength and route of administration as their branded counterparts. They have to pass through the rigorous testing and need to comply with the standard sets of regulatory bodies like the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization in India or the FDA in the USA. So, in other words, a generic painkiller will work in the same way in your body as the branded version. It’s just that it’ll cost less because the manufacturer didn’t need to invest in the original research and marketing.
Myth 2 – Generic medicines are not as effective as branded drugs
Again, the fact here is entirely different. The generic medicines are bioequivalent to branded drugs. This means they will deliver the same amount of active ingredients into the bloodstream and in the same amount of time as their branded counterparts. There are numerous studies across the globe which show that there is no significant difference in clinical effectiveness between the branded and generic drugs. However, the patients may sometimes perceive a difference because of some psychological factors like color, packaging or shape, but scientifically the outcome is equivalent.
Myth 3 – Generic drugs are unsafe or poorly regulated
This again stems from the fact that they are cheaper; the generics seem to be less safe or even counterfeit. However, if you’re buying it from a trusted generic medicine supplier, this is certainly not the case. In India, the generic medicines are regulated under Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and need to undergo a strict approval process. The companies are required to demonstrate the drug’s safety, efficacy and bioequivalence. Furthermore, there are many generic medicines which are manufactured by the same companies that produce the branded version. The National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories also ensures that they have regular quality checks.
Myth 4 – Only branded drugs are prescribed by doctors
Often you’ll find that the doctors will give you branded drugs in the prescription. This is because of aggressive marketing or incentives as offered by the pharmaceutical companies to these doctors. While many health practitioners acknowledge that generic medicines are just as effective, but out of habit, brand familiarity and patient perception, this can influence their prescription habits. Fortunately, there are some government initiatives like National Medical Commission’s directive, which encourage general prescriptions and thus can give you a rational and cost effective prescribing.
Myth 5 – Generic medicines are not available for all conditions
This is again a very wrong conception because generic medicines are available for a wide range of conditions which could be for minor infections to chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, depression, etc. In fact, in the various government stores, there are thousands of essential generics available at a fraction of price of their branded counterparts. The key is access and awareness. The patients need to be aware that there is a generic alternative and they can request this from their pharmacist or doctor.
Myth 6 – All generic medicines are the same
While all generics must meet their equivalence in standard, not all manufacturers follow the same good manufacturing practices. Therefore, the quality of excipients, that is, the inactive ingredients, packaging, storage conditions might vary and that is why it is very important that you need to choose generics from the reputed manufacturers. It is still better to consult a health practitioner when you’re switching between the brands.
Myth 7 – Generic medicines are only for the poor
This cannot be farther from the truth. It’s a stereotype and many wealthy and educated consumers globally choose to go for the generics because it reduces their health care costs without compromising the quality. Even in countries like the US and the UK, over 85% of prescriptions are filled with generic medeicines. This medicines promote sustainable health care for everyone, and not just for those who have some limited means.
You need to trust science, not stigma. Generic medicines have been proven, tested and endorsed by health authorities across the globe. They’re not substitutes, but at equal alternatives which are designed to make life saving treatments available to a broader number of people. So when the next time you hear someone question the value or reliability of this generic medicines, remember to tell them that it’s not the price tag that heals you, but the science behind how those medicines are made. Debunking this myth requires factual awareness among people, and you need to take a step forward to make a more informed and empowered healthcare ecosystem only through regular understanding of advanced medical science.
