Is it safe to buy generic drugs from India?
These concerns raise fears among patients that taking drugs made in India may result in unpredictable effects. Fortunately, the reality is that the generic medicines manufactured in India are as safe and efficacious as those made in the United States.
Why generic medicines are cheaper in India?
In the post-expiry phase, other drug-makers may manufacture the same drug and sell it under an international nonproprietary name – typically at a lower cost. Because generics break this affordability barrier, Indian law allows doctors to prescribe generic drugs to patients and for pharmacies to sell them.
What is the difference between branded and generic drugs in India?
The issue in India is not about expensive brand name drugs versus cheaper generics, as in the West, but one of quality drugs versus suspect quality drugs. Branded generics are also generics with a brand name, plus the quality assurance from well-known companies like Cipla, Sun or Dr Reddy’s.
Why are there so few generic drugs?
There simply are not enough generic name equivalents of branded medicines sold. About half the market—`50,000 crore and more—is for fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) of drugs, a further half of them irrational. Many FDC drugs contain even eight or nine medicines.
What is the size of the Indian pharmaceutical market?
At least 90\% of the Indian domestic pharmaceutical market, of `1,00,000 crore and more, comprises drugs sold under brand names. There simply are not enough generic name equivalents of branded medicines sold. About half the market—`50,000 crore and more—is for fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) of drugs, a further half of them irrational.
What is India’s trade margin for branded medicines?
In a recent study, India’s trade margin for several branded medicines varies from 200\% to more than 2000\%. Not only this, the practice of self-medication is widespread in the nation among several socio-economic groups is similar to the practice of over the counter drug dispensing.