Generic and Brand-name Drugs: What you need to know
“Generic po ba or branded?” Ito ang karaniwang tanong ng pharmacist sa botika kapag bumibili tayo ng gamot.
The majority of pharmacists in the country ensure that we are given this option, signifying that the Philippines has made a huge leap in making healthcare more affordable for Filipinos.
Implementation of the Generics Act of 1988
Before 1988, the high cost of branded medicine made it challenging for Filipinos, particularly low-income families and those with chronic illnesses, to sustain medical treatment.
To answer the need for affordable and effective drugs, President Corazon Aquino signed the Generics Act of 1988 also known as Republic Act 6675 on September 13, 1988. It is an “Act to Promote, Require and Ensure the Production of an Adequate Supply, Distribution, Use and Acceptance of Drugs and Medicines Identified by their Generic Names.”
It requires doctors to include both the generic and brand names of the medicines in their prescriptions. Drugstores are also mandated to display generic cards and offer generic alternatives to consumers.
What are Generic Medicines?
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a generic medicine is created to be the same as the marketed branded drug.
Facts About Generics and Brand-Name Drugs
Active Ingredients - Generic drugs contain the same active ingredient(s) as that of the brand-name medicine. This active ingredient is the component that makes the medication effective against the illness or condition that it is meant to treat.
Inactive Ingredients - Generic medicine may contain different inactive ingredient(s) from that of the brand-name drugs. However, the differences have no effect on how the drug functions.
Strength - The strength and use indications of generic medicine are the same as brand-name drugs.
Cost - Generic drugs are significantly cheaper than brand-name drugs because generic manufacturers do not pay for research and development, clinical trials, nor buy the rights to market the medicine, which were required for the original brand-name drug to be approved by the FDA. However, this doesn’t mean the generic versions are less effective compared to branded drugs.
Quality - Generics go through the same strict manufacturing standards as brand-name medicine.
Stability - Generic medicine undergo multiple "stability tests" to show that they can last for at least the same amount of time as the brand-name drug.
Type - Generic medicine are available in the same form (e.g., tablet, capsule, liquid, injectable) as the brand-name drug.
Route of Administration - Generics are taken in the same way (e.g., orally, topically) as the brand-name drug.
FDA Fact:
- FDA-approved generics are safe for dispensing. However, if you’re in doubt about a particular medicine, you can check the FDA website for announcements regarding unauthorized and fake drugs.
DOH Encourages the Use of Generics
The Department of Health’s (DOH) core mission includes empowering and strengthening public health through promoting the benefits of generic medicines in line with the Generics Act of 1988.
The DOH encourages the public to use generic medicines because they contain the same active ingredients as branded drugs, making them equally safe and effective. In addition, generics also cost less, making them an accessible choice for most Filipinos.
Dr. Constante Caluya III, Head of the DOH’s Pharmaceutical Division Unit reminds doctors to highlight generic counterparts to their patients so that they have an option to purchase more affordable, yet safe and effective medicine. Caluya also urges patients to request the generic names of the medicine prescribed during medical consultations.
Should You Buy Generic Medicines?
The Philippines has come a long way in making healthcare accessible to its citizens. With the implementation of the Generics Act of 1988, medication costs have been significantly reduced, putting healthcare within reach for many Filipinos. This empowers patients to prioritize their health without financial strain. At the end of the day, the final decision whether to buy a brand-name medicine or a generic alternative is yours. You can discuss your medication options with your doctor and seek advice on whether a generic is a suitable choice for your medical condition.