Generics/Research
Impact of measures to encourage generics prescribing in Scotland
Since 2000, measures have been introduced in Scotland in order to encourage use of generic rather than brand-name proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and statins [1]. The impact of these measures on the prescribing practices in Scotland has been positive. Generics use has increased, and costs for the Scottish government have decreased.
Prescribing of generic PPIs and statins in Scotland
In Scotland, a series of measures have been introduced since 2000 in order to encourage use of generic rather than brand-name proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and statins [1]. Some of the measures introduced include:
Data publication may address generics misperceptions
Wider publication of bioequivalence, safety, or efficacy data to demonstrate the effectiveness of generic drug compounds may help to nullify the last remaining anti-generics argument: that generics do not achieve the same therapeutic standards as the original branded drug.
Factors important for generics substitution in Finland
What factors do patients take into account when deciding to accept or reject generics substitution? This is the question asked in a recent research article [1].
Generics market to experience strong growth in 2010–2017
The global market for generic drugs will experience strong growth in the coming years due to patent expiries of blockbuster drugs worth US$150 billion between 2010 and 2017. Cost containment strategies being implemented by governments and healthcare service providers are also given credit for shifting sales towards cheaper generics.
Translational research to uncover new uses for generics
On the surface, generic compounds and translational medicines could not appear more different. However, in April 2011, the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) met with academic, governmental, and industry R & D experts to discuss whether translational methods could help to rescue and re-position certain generics [1].
Generics saved US$931 billion over last 10 years
On 21 September 2011, the US Generic Pharmaceutical Association (GPhA) released the results of an independent analysis showing that the use of generic drugs in the US has saved patients and the healthcare system US$931 billion between 2001 and 2010.
Generic atorvastatin may be better than Crestor
AstraZeneca’s leading cholesterol drug Crestor (rosuvastatin) failed to show a statistically significant benefit over Pfizer’s Lipitor (atorvastatin), according to results of a phase IIIb trial. The results could prove to be good news for generics manufacturers, boosting sales of generic atorvastatin, soon to compete with Crestor.
Tendering for medicines in ambulatory care
Tendering is a mechanism whereby a purchaser buys medicines from the pharmaceutical manufacturer that offers the best bid [1]. Whereas tendering is widely used in the hospital sector, it is only recently being rolled out in ambulatory care in an increasing number of countries with a view to constraining pharmaceutical expenditure. Denmark, Germany and The Netherlands are the countries that have taken up the idea most readily. However, the success of this strategy is not yet clear compared to other European generic medicines pricing policies.
Integrated prescriber dispensing can slow generic growth
Countries such as China, Japan and Taiwan which have public health insurance systems, and which allow physicians to both prescribe and dispense drugs themselves, are the most resistant to generics competition, according to a study by two Taiwanese health economists from the National Cheng-Kung University and Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan [1].
