Branded vs Generic Medicines: Whenever we buy medicine for the treatment of any disease, we often get two types of options - branded medicine and generic medicine. Usually, people believe that expensive branded medicines are more effective, while cheap generic medicines are less effective, but is it so in reality? Let us know what is the real difference between branded and generic medicines and whether people's perceptions about generic medicines are correct.

What is the difference between generic and branded medicine?

The biggest difference between branded and generic medicines is their name and price, but their active ingredient is the same. This is the same element that helps in curing the disease. So then where does the difference come from? Let's understand in detail.

1) Branded medicines

These medicines are developed by a big pharma company.

Companies invest heavily in research and patents for new medicines.

A lot of money is also spent on their marketing and advertising.

Due to the patent, no other company can make it, so they are expensive.

2) Generic medicines

When the patent of a branded drug expires, other companies can make the same drug without a brand name at a lower price.

These medicines are as safe and effective as branded medicines.

There is no research and advertising cost for them, which keeps their price low.

Are generic medicines less effective?

This is the biggest myth that generic medicines are less effective. The effectiveness, safety, and quality of generic medicines are checked by government agencies (CDSCO in India, FDA in the US). Their manufacturing process and effect are the same as branded medicines.

However, there may be a difference between a generic drug and a branded drug in some cases:

Form or size of tablets: The color, shape, and additional ingredients (fillers) of a generic drug may be different, but the active ingredient remains the same.

Bioavailability: In some cases, there may be slight differences in the rate at which the body absorbs the drug, but this is usually not medically significant.

Why are generic drugs cheaper?

Many people have the misconception that cheaper drugs will also be less effective, but generic drugs are cheaper because:

They do not require new research and development.

They do not require advertising and marketing.

Many companies manufacture the same drug, which increases competition and keeps prices low.

Governments also promote generic drugs so that affordable and effective medicines can reach the general public.

Should generic drugs be purchased?
If a doctor has prescribed a generic drug, it can be taken without any hesitation. Many government hospitals and “Jan Aushadhi Kendras” provide generic drugs, but there are some important things to note:

Buy good quality generic drugs – Some local companies may also manufacture poor quality medicines, so buy only from certified medical stores.

Check SALT (active ingredients) – Look for the active ingredients written on the packet and make sure they matches the one recommended by the doctor.

Consult a doctor or pharmacist – If in doubt, ask an expert.

Overall, it would be wrong to say that only branded medicines are more effective. If the right quality generic medicine is bought, it is as effective as the branded medicine. So next time when you buy a medicine, pay attention to the active ingredients and quality instead of being influenced by the brand name. The government is also promoting generic medicines so that everyone can get affordable and effective treatment.

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