Concerns Over Generic Drugs

Many people have concerns over the safety and
effectiveness of Generic drugs as they don’t have to
go through as rigorous or as lengthy clinical trials
as the innovator drug.

The FDA say that the active ingredient has already
been though clinical trials and it would be pointless
to make generic versions do the same as they are made
from the same active ingredients.

Bioequivalence tests are enough to ensure the drug is
as effective and safe as the original as they differ
so little.

In most cases there is nothing to worry about as
generics are tightly regulated. Generic drugs have
been found to have many of the problems of the
original, for example the same side effects.

But some comparison studies have shown that whilst
quite a number of generic drugs performed the same as
the original, some differed substantially.

If you are switched from a branded version of a drug
to a generic and notice a change in your symptoms,
especially for the worse, go to your GP who will be
able to help and advise you.

Research the particular drug you are on particularly
any scientific studies which have been conducted and
talk to others to find out what their experiences with
the drug have been. Information like this will allow
you to make an informed decision about your
medication.