Why Are Branded Medicines Preferred Over Cheaper Generics in India: Challenges and Solutions

In India, the prescription of generic drugs is not as widespread as it could be. Despite being more cost-effective and often equally effective as their branded counterparts, generic medicines do not see the same level of adoption. This article delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon and explores potential solutions.

Regulatory Framework and Manufacturing Licenses

For the manufacture of drugs, a license is required. This is to ensure that only authorized companies can produce medicines, thereby guaranteeing certain standards of quality. A publicly available database exists where one can check if a medicine has the permission of a government authority to be manufactured. However, the existence and accessibility of such a database are often questioned.

While big companies are known to maintain standard manufacturing practices, there is a risk associated with using generic drugs as counterfeit and adulterated medicines can still enter the market. These pharmaceuticals can cause significant harm to patients who do not receive the expected treatment outcomes.

Quality and Trust

The effectiveness of generic drugs is not assumed but must be guaranteed. However, the reality of the situation in India shows that not all generic drugs meet this guarantee. Many reports of fake and impure drugs circulate, leading to health risks for patients. The question arises: if a patient does not benefit from a drug, who bears the responsibility – the generic medicine or the doctor prescribing it?

As a doctor, the risk associated with prescribing generics is significant. Many doctors rely on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat patients for their income. The issue of kickbacks is also prevalent in India, where doctors receive financial incentives for prescribing branded drugs. This practice is still allowed, unlike in the United States, where kickbacks are illegal.

Manufacturing Standards and FDA Compliance

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strict requirements for the bioequivalence of generic drugs compared to their branded counterparts. However, India's regulatory body tends to be less stringent in its oversight of generic drug manufacturing, leading to inconsistencies in quality.

For commonly prescribed medicines, no company, except possibly a few small-time ones, offers commissions to doctors for prescribing their generics. The majority of doctors do not prescribe such medicines due to the lack of quality assurance. This highlights the need for greater transparency and stricter enforcement of pharmaceutical regulations in India.

Truemeds: Leading the Change

Truemeds, a growing name in India's healthcare landscape, is committed to bridging the gap between cost and quality. By offering free doctor consultations, Truemeds ensures that patients have access to the best quality medicines at a fraction of the cost. Upon uploading a prescription, Truemeds doctors contact the patient, providing generic alternatives to branded medicines.

Truemeds believes in the goodness of generic medicines and aims to educate patients about the quality and cost-effectiveness of these alternatives. Order generic medicines from Truemeds and save up to 80% on your medical expenses without sacrificing quality.

With a focus on transparency, quality, and affordability, Truemeds is paving the way for a more accessible and sustainable healthcare system in India. By supporting generic medicines, Truemeds is helping to address the challenges and foster a more informed and healthier population.

For more information and to explore Truemeds' range of generic medicines, visit Truemeds' website.