Brand name medication refers to medication made and marketed by large pharmaceutical companies. One of the most common reasons people buy brand-name medication is because they believe it will be more effective than generic brands. However, this isn’t supported by any evidence. Brand-name and generic medications are equally effective.
1) The Prices are Almost Similar to Generic Medications
Many people who buy brand name medication often do not realize that the prices of these medications are almost similar to the generic form. This is because the pharmaceutical companies of generic drugs have to follow strict regulations and guidelines that allow them to sell their medications at a reduced price. However, in most cases, buying brand-name medication does not have any significant advantage over buying generic medication. Also, if you want to buy generic medications and find them out of stock in the store, you can always choose the generic brand of the medication, which you can get for a reasonable price. In some stores, the price may be slightly higher but not significantly higher.
2) There is No Evidence of Better Effectiveness
There is little evidence to show that brand-name medications are more effective than generic forms. Patients take brand-name and generic drugs in almost the same number of cases to treat the same diseases and disorders. Brand-name medications are often a little more expensive than generic ones, but this does not mean these medications work better. Brand name medications are marketed as the original and best form of the medication, with better quality and more effectiveness than generic brands. However, they are not always superior. The quality of brand name and generic drugs may differ slightly, but this does not have a major effect on how they work. For example, a high dosage of brand name drug may be more effective for reducing cholesterol than a lower dosage of a generic drug. However, the same difference will not be observed when a smaller dosage of generic drugs is given to patients.
3) Brand Name Medications are Available on Prescription and Over the Counter
Some medications, such as Advil, are available as prescription and over-the-counter medications. However, for brand-name medications to be sold as over-the-counter medications, they must meet certain standards. For example, they have to have limited side effects and cannot be addictive. Physicians always choose a brand name they trust rather than a generic brand. The branded medication must be of good quality and effective, proven by clinical studies. This is why these medications are more expensive than generic forms.
4) You Can Buy Brand Name Medication With Insurance and Pay Less
Many people are concerned about purchasing medication over the counter because it can lead to serious health issues. This is why they prefer to buy prescription drugs if they need to purchase any medications. It is true that some people may be suffering from a serious illness and cannot purchase the medication over the counter. Still, it is also true that some of these people may be able to purchase medicine over the counter when insurance does not cover their medication costs. Prescription discount cards can also be used to pay less when purchasing brand-name medications. It is always best to utilize a doctor’s prescription when buying brand-name drugs. Insurances are not limited to whether they cover brand name or generic medications. Usually, they cover all the medications in a form provided the FDA approves them.
5) You Can Buy Brand Name Medication Online
If you cannot find a brand-name medication or cannot purchase one from the store, you can always buy it online. There are many websites from which you can purchase brand-name medications at a reduced price. However, it is always important to remember that not everything available on the internet is true. You must make sure that you are buying your medication from a reputed website and not just any website. Most websites may request a prescription from you, but others may not. Brand-name medications contain side effects, and depending on your health, you may be allergic to them. This is why it is important to follow the instructions of your physician, who writes the prescription.
You can get discounts on brand-name medications by using a prescription card. You can also use patient programs, which offer some discounts and rebates. You can even get a free brand-name medication if you qualify for this offer. Always remember that branded medications work in the same way as generic medications. The effectiveness of the medication should be your main concern, not the price at which you can get it.
