SOME MyTHS AND fACTS AbOuT GENERICS:
MYTH
Generics take longer to act in the body.
FACT
The manufacturer seeking to register a generic drug must prove that this drug delivers the same amount of active
ingredient in the same time-frame as the original product.
MYTH
Generics are not as potent as the original product.
FACT
The MCC requires the generic to have the same quality, strength and stability as the original product.
MYTH
Generics are not as safe as original products.
FACT
The MCC requires that all drugs are safe and effective and that their benefits outweigh their risks.
Generics have the same risk-benefit profile as their original counterparts.
MYTH
Original drugs are made in modern manufacturing facilities and generics are made in substandard facilities.
FACT
Manufacturing facilities have to comply with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) as well as with the standards of the
MCC. Inspections are conducted regularly.
FACT
Manufacturers make copies of their own original product but sell them under the generic name e.g. Prozac.
