Asian Journal of Pharmacy and Technology

Healthcare spending on medications is rising due to advancements in medical care and increased diagnostic capabilities for conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Medicines are categorized into branded and generic drugs. A significant portion of healthcare spending is dedicated to medicines, with future costs expected to rise due to advancements in healthcare, improved diagnostics, and demographic changes. Medicines are primarily classified into branded and generic drugs. Branded drugs are original products developed by pharmaceutical companies and protected by patents, which grant exclusive manufacturing and marketing rights for a set period. This results in high production and marketing costs, leading to elevated prices. Once the patent expires, Generic drugs which are identical in form, strength, administration, quality, and therapeutic effect become available. Generics are produced at lower costs due to reduced manufacturing, marketing, and retailer expenses, making them a cost-effective alternative. Although generics might vary in appearance or taste due to different fillers, they are just as safe and effective as branded drugs. The adoption of generics is influenced by public policies aimed at reducing healthcare costs and can help lower overall expenditures while maintaining high care standards. By making generics more accessible, healthcare systems can potentially reduce overall costs while maintaining high standards of patient care.