888-765-5400Questions and Answers About Generic Drugs
How generic versions of drugs are developed
When new drugs are developed, manufacturers obtain a patent,
which prevents other pharmaceutical companies from producing
the same drug for a certain period of time. When the patent
expires, drug manufacturers can apply to the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) for permission to make a generic version of
the drug, without having to repeat the clinical trials and research
performed by the drug’s original manufacturer.
Why generic drugs are cheaper
Generic drugs are less expensive than brand-name drugs
because manufacturers don’t have to pay the research,
development, marketing and promotion costs that the original
manufacturer did in bringing the new drug to the market place.
The average price for a generic drug is 30 to 80 percent less
than its brand-name equivalent. That means savings for you.
Generic drugs are regulated by the FDA, just like brand-name
drugs. And the FDA requires that the generic version have the
same active ingredients, strength and dosage form (pill, injection
or liquid). Every generic drug must undergo a scientific review of
its ingredients and performance. The FDA also inspects generic
drug manufacturing plants and monitors drug quality.
Why generics look different:
In the U.S., trademark laws do not allow generic drugs to look
exactly like the brand-name drug. However, the generic drug
must have the same active ingredients. Colors, flavors and
certain other inactive ingredients may be different, but these
things don’t affect the way the drug works.
Why generics usually have a different name
Brand names are created by the original manufacturer, while
generic drugs are often called the chemical name of the
medication’s active ingredient.
How you can switch to generics
Tell your doctor that you are interested in using generic drugs.
Your doctor should specify on a prescription that a generic may
be substituted for a brand-name drug. If you are already taking
a brand-name drug, ask your doctor or pharmacist if a generic
version is available. Not all brand-name drugs have generic
equivalents, especially new drugs. However if you are already
taking a brand-name drug, ask your doctor or pharmacist if a
generic version is available and right for you.
Source: U.S. Food and Drug administration, 2008. www.fda.gov/buyonlineguide/generic_text.htm
(Accessed February 2009).
For more information on health insurance coverage in North Carolina and how to utilize My Member Services, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our qualified agents. Our agency provides coverage for health insurance in North Carolina through Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC). You may qualify for a 15% healthy lifestyle discount if you are in excellent health. Call us for details.
