Table of Contents
Issue?
- There is an increased push by the government for generic drugs, for affordable healthcare.
What are generics?
- A generic drug is a pharmaceutical drug that has the same chemical substance as the drug that was originally developed, patented and innovated.
- The active chemical substance is the same, the medical profile of generics is believed to be equivalent in performance.
- The generic drug has the same Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) as the original, but it may differ in characteristics such as manufacturing process, formulation excipients, color, taste, and packaging
Emphasis on generics?
- To cut down on out-of-pocket expenditure
- In the Indian market, generics hold a whopping 75% share.
- Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
- PMBJP stores have been set up to provide generic drugs, which are available at lesser prices.
Concerns?
- India ranks third in the global pharma market (10% in global sales)
- NSQ
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)
- Drugs were recalled
- US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) guidelines
- Quality control mechanism
- Branded generics
Risk?
- NCD burden
- Low-quality drug delays
- Substandard medicines
WAY FORWARD
- Global best standards, not lowest price.
- Medication should be affordable, superior-quality drugs.
- The ‘generics-only model’ approach needs a critical reassessment
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