Generics
Understanding pharmaceutical expenditure
In the previous three articles by Vogler and co-authors price and volume components of pharmaceutical expenditure were discussed. In the final article of the series, some of the methodological challenges that can be faced in interpreting and analysing expenditure data are addressed and the challenges faced by the authors’ own survey of pharmaceutical expenditure data across European Union Member States are discussed [1].
Rising generics use triggers increased worldwide regulation
The increasing use of lower cost generics is prompting regulators across the globe to introduce stricter regulations focusing on the quality of these products.
Hikma makes deal to enhance delivery of generic injectables
Hikma Pharmaceuticals (Hikma) announced on 20 November 2013 that it had signed a long-term commercial supply contract with Unilife Corporation (Unilife) for the use of Unifill pre-filled syringes with a range of generic injectable drugs.
Volume components of pharmaceutical expenditure
In the third of a series of four articles on pharmaceutical expenditure, Vogler and co-authors explain the different methodological approaches to measuring pharmaceutical utilization and outline some of the volume-control policies in place across Europe [1].
FDA approves first rabeprazole generics for treatment of GERD
On 8 November 2013, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that the agency had approved the first generics of Aciphex (rabeprazole) delayed-release tablets, used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in adults and adolescents (ages 12 and up).
FDA awards grant to study generic transplant drug tacrolimus
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has awarded a federal grant worth US$2.3 million to researchers at the University of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, in order to continue studies into tacrolimus, a drug commonly used to stop rejection in transplant patients.
First generic 30 mg Focalin XR capsules approved
On 18 November 2013, Mylan Pharmaceuticals announced the launch of generic dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release (ER) capsules, 30 mg.
Price components of pharmaceutical expenditure
In the second of a series of four articles on pharmaceutical expenditure, Vogler and co-authors take a top down approach to the concept of pharmaceutical expenditure and its use as an indicator in healthcare accounting. Here, they look at the differences in outpatient and inpatient price types [1].
Ranbaxy sues Actavis over generic acne drug
Indian generics giant Ranbaxy Laboratories (Ranbaxy) is suing US generic drugmaker Actavis to try to stop the latter marketing a generic version of Ranbaxy’s acne drug Absorica (isotretinoin).
Pharmaceutical expenditure as a health-expenditure indicator
Pharmaceutical expenditure is a major indicator in health-expenditure accounting, and is particularly useful to policymakers and researchers in making regional, country and international comparisons, forecasting, and assessing the effect of pharmaceutical policies [1].
