Difference Between Generic & Name Brand Prescriptions
Your doctor has given you a prescription for a particular medication. You discover that you have a choice between a 'name brand' version of this drug or a 'generic' version. You want to pick the version that is safest, most effective and least expensive.
Name Brand Drugs
A name brand drug, also known as a brand name, is a drug originally researched, created and manufactured by a pharmaceutical company, according to an article in the December 13, 2004 issue of "Scientific American," co-authored by Erik Mogalian, a licensed pharmacist, and Paul Myrdal, assistant professor at the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy.
Research and Testing
According to the "Scientific American" article, name brand drugs go through extensive testing; results must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under its Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP). Once approved and patented, the pharmaceutical company is the sole marketer until the patent expires.
Generic Drugs
A drug becomes 'generic' when the patent that the pharmaceutical company holds on it lapses. The drug then becomes available for manufacture by other pharmaceutical companies, but with certain FDA requirements, including the CGMP.
Name Brand and Generic Likenesses
According to the FDA, generic drugs are required to have the exact same active ingredients as their name-brand counterpart, in the same dosage, same delivery system (capsule, tablet) and have the same effect when administered. They must be also produced using Current Good Manufacturing Practices.
Generic and Name Brand Differences
Inactive ingredients, preservatives and packaging can be different between generics and name brands, according to the FDA, but the main difference between generic and name brand drugs is often price. Generics often cost less because their manufacturers do not need to do as much research and testing.
Tags: Generic Name, pharmaceutical company, Between Generic, Brand Prescriptions, Current Good, Current Good Manufacturing