is it safe to consume generic medicines and buy them using generic medicines app

Posted by Chemists World on January 19th, 2021

What is generic medicine?

A generic medicine is a drug that imitates brand-name drugs in terms of strength, effect, dosage, form, administration, quality, and safety. A generic must obtain FDA approval for prescription and consumption. You can easily buy these medicines using generic medicine app as well as from your local pharmacy.

The purchase of these brand name drug alternatives allows patients to significantly save on their medical bills, 80% of pharmaceutical medicines are composed of generic medicines, making them a popular and cost-effective alternative to brand name medicines.

What are the differences between generic and branded medicines?

Generic drugs differ from brand name medicines in the following aspects:

Cost- As branded medications, generic medicines are not protected by patents and exclusive rights. Patients can easily buy the generic brand name medicines prescribed by the doctor at one-third cost of branded ones.

Color, shape, and packaging- The packaging, color, or shape of a generic medicine may differ from the original branded medicines but not ineffectiveness.

Use of inactive ingredients- inactive ingredients which generally include flavor and preservatives may differ from its branded counterpart. However, the safety of such ingredients used in endures FDA approvals.

The expiry date of medicines- Some generic medicines come with an extended expiration date than their branded counterparts. Drug manufacturers ensure they are highly effective until their expiry date.

Are generic drugs safe?

Yes. Generic drugs are highly regulated and go through a difficult review process before they are approved by the FDA. The FDA tests them to make sure they offer the same benefits as the branded ones and that any different ingredients used in the generic drug are safe. This examination also includes how sturdy the drug’s container is and how long an unused medicine lasts before it breaks down. The FDA approves the medicine only if the manufacturer meets all the norms and regulation related to the safety of the medicines.

If people having generic medicine face any side effects, the FDA will examine, and the manufacturer may have to change how it is processed or how the drug is being used.

Is generic medicine available in India?

Generic medicines are available in Indian pharmacies across cities and states as well as over the online pharmacy. When purchasing prescription medicine using generic medicine apps India, you can also ask for generic medicines and reduce your bills.

Are there times when I should choose a brand name over generic?

A generic drug may sound like an obvious choice when it comes to deciding which version of medicines is to take- after all, it is cheaper and does the exact same thing. But in some rare cases like when there is no generic version available for some medicines.

If you would like to know if there is a generic version available for your branded medicine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.