Due to changes in lifestyle, the prevalence of the disease's rate is rising in India. Almost 21% of elderly people have at least one chronic illness, such as diabetes or hypertension. Children and teenagers are currently also affected by several diseases. Every Indian wants relief from the expenses of healthcare and medicine. It's been observed that both urban and rural India spend more than 70% of their income on medications, even though the same ratio would reduce by 85% if generic medicines were used instead.
Generic medicine: An overview
Generic medicine, or a drug, is a pharmaceutical medicine with the same chemical composition as existing drugs. Generic medicines have the same active ingredients that are present in brand-name medicines. These medicines are allowed to be used because they are safe and effective and have high-quality performance characteristics. Generic drugs are cheaper than brand-name drugs, and they could be the source of saving a high amount of medicine expenses in our country. These medicines are believed to save a major segment income of a family, which they can use for other health-related issues.
Why do we need Generic medicine
- Effectiveness: Generic drugs are identical to their brand-name equivalents in terms of active components, dosage forms, potency, and mode of administration.
- Safety check of generic medicines: To guarantee that generic medications fulfill the same requirements for quality, safety, and efficacy as brand-name medications, they are tested and verified multiple times. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization rigorously monitors the production of generic medications.
- Cost-effective: Compared to brand -name medications, generic drugs are more reasonably priced. Buying generic medications can result in significant financial savings.
- Availability: Generic medicines are generally accessible to a wider population since pharmacists stock them and make them more publicly available.
India and Generic medicine
The United States was the first nation to approve the use of generic drug products, considering them important for public health. However, India is one of the largest producers and exporters of generic medicines but finds less popularity among locals. Doctors as well as patients feel underconfident while using generic drugs. The reason could be less advertising and promotion of generic medicines as compared to brand-name medicines.
The Indian government is doing its best to spread awareness about the benefits and importance of generic drugs. Schemes like Jan Aushadhi (Medicines for People) have been initiated by the government to supply unbranded and cost-effective quality medicines to poor people.
Today, there are several Jan Aushadhi stores in India where one can easily find medicines at cheap prices. Also, the government is investing in advertising, which is gradually seeking people's attention.
Conclusion
At the end of the article, we can conclude the importance of generic medicine in the public interest. People are feeling less comfortable with it because of the lack of awareness. There is a misconception among people that generic medicines or medicines at a lower price are not good for their health or will show side effects, which is completely incorrect. Generic medicines are safe to use and are highly effective.