Understanding Generic vs Branded Medicines: What's the Real Difference?

When you’re handed a prescription, you may notice there are options: branded medicine and its generic counterpart. With rising healthcare costs, many patients wonder — are generic medicines truly as good as branded ones? Let’s dive into the facts and myths surrounding generic vs branded medicines

What Are Branded Medicines?

Branded medicines are the original products developed by pharmaceutical companies. After extensive research, clinical trials, and regulatory approvals, these drugs are launched under a trademarked brand name.

Example:
Branded name – Augmentin (Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid)

These drugs are typically priced higher due to the cost of research, development, and marketing.

What Are Generic Medicines?

Generic medicines are bioequivalent versions of branded drugs. Once the patent of a branded drug expires, other manufacturers can produce the same drug under a generic name.

Generic drugs have:

  • The same active ingredients
  • The same dosage and strength
  • The same route of administration
  • The same therapeutic effect

Example:
Generic – Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid

Are Generic Medicines Safe and Effective?

Yes, absolutely. Generic medicines undergo strict quality checks and are approved by regulatory bodies like the CDSCO (India) or FDA (USA).
They perform the same as branded drugs in terms of effectiveness, safety, and intended use.

Why Are Generic Medicines Cheaper?

Generic manufacturers don’t bear the cost of:

  • Research and development
  • Marketing and promotion
    This allows them to price the medicines 30–80% lower than their branded counterparts, making healthcare more accessible.

Common Myths About Generic Medicines

✅ Myth: Generic drugs are inferior in quality
Truth: Approved generics must meet the same quality standards as branded drugs.

✅ Myth: Generics take longer to work
Truth: Generics have the same active ingredient and work just as effectively.

✅ Myth: They are made in unregulated facilities
Truth: Licensed manufacturers are strictly regulated and monitored.

How to Choose Between Branded and Generic?

  • Trust your doctor or pharmacist: They will suggest what's safe and effective.
  • Check for CDSCO/FDA approval: Ensures quality and safety.
  • Compare prices: If both are equally effective, why not choose the affordable option?

Conclusion

Choosing between generic and branded medicines doesn’t have to be confusing. With proper knowledge, you can make safe, cost-effective healthcare decisions. At E-Dawa, we offer authentic, approved medicines — both branded and generic — delivered conveniently to your doorstep.

📢 Order Medicines Online – Branded or Generic – via WhatsApp at +91-7408086060