Generic vs branded drugs

The differences between generic and branded drugs have always been a point of confusion among drug consumers. Many people feel that generic drugs are an inferior version of branded drugs but that's not the case. Generic drugs as well as branded drug share the same quality, strength, safety, dosage etc. The only difference between the two lies in their price and looks.

Generic drugs can be used as an alternative of branded drugs like Viagra, since both these drugs use the same active ingredients, they share the same pros and cons.

The manufacturers of Generic drugs don't have the investment cost necessary for the development of a new drug. Branded drugs are developed under patent protection. The patent protects the investment-including research, development, marketing, and promotion-by giving the company the sole right to sell the drug while it is in effect. As patents near expiration, manufacturers can apply to sell generic versions.

The generic manufacturers do not have the same development cost therefore they sell their drugs at substantial discount. The second factor that affects the price of generic drug is the fact that they face a great competition, which keeps the price down. Today, almost half of all prescriptions are filled with generic drugs.

Generic drugs maintain the similar level of standard as that of branded drugs. Generic firms have facilities comparable to those of brand-name firms. 50% of the brand-name firms are linked generic drug production. They frequently make copies of their own or other brand-name drugs but sell them without the brand name.