A medication that is bioequivalent to a brand-name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use. Generics are typically sold under their chemical name rather than a brand name and are often less expensive than their branded counterparts.
Refers to the similarity in the rate and extent of absorption of the active ingredient(s) of a generic drug compared to a brand-name drug when administered at the same dose under similar conditions.
The chemical component responsible for the therapeutic effects of a medication. In generics, the active ingredient is identical to that of the brand-name drug.
The process through which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) evaluates the safety, efficacy, and quality of generic drugs before allowing them to be marketed and sold to consumers.
The point at which the patent protection for a brand-name drug expires, allowing generic versions to enter the market. This typically leads to increased competition and lower prices.
The concept that generic drugs have the same therapeutic effect as their brand-name counterparts when administered to patients under the same conditions.
The specific combination of active and inactive ingredients, as well as the dosage form (e.g., tablet, capsule, injection), used to produce a medication. Generic drugs must have the same formulation as the brand-name drug to ensure bioequivalence.
The processes and procedures implemented by pharmaceutical manufacturers to ensure that generic drugs meet strict quality standards for safety, purity, and potency.
The potential economic benefit of choosing generic drugs over brand-name drugs, as generics are typically priced lower due to reduced research and development costs.
The ability of a generic drug to be substituted for its brand-name counterpart without compromising therapeutic effectiveness or safety. This concept is regulated by health authorities and may vary depending on the jurisdiction.