DOH tip: 'True generics' cheaper than 'branded generics':

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DOH tip: 'True generics' cheaper than 'branded generics':

ABS-CBN News

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Updated Oct 03, 2019 09:01 AM PHT

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Here's a tip from the Department of Health: Filipinos are starting to favor cheaper generic medicines over branded ones, but can save more by buying "true generics" over "branded generics."

"Innovators" who develop first-of-its-kind drugs get 20 years to sell these exclusively and cover costs for their research and development, noted Dr. Anna Melissa Guerrero, program manager of DOH's pharmaceutical division.

After the 20-year period, other pharmaceutical firms can make copies of the drugs, known as "generics."

"Branded generics", which have cornered 52 percent of the drug market share, are usually produced by big pharmaceutical firms and have advertisements, making them pricier than "true generics" that have no brand name and only comprise 6 percent of the market, she said.

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"May choice kayo, either bumili kayo ng pinakamurang generic, branded generic or iyong pinakamahal na branded," Guerrero told radio DZMM.

(You have a choice: buy the cheapest generic, the branded generic or the most expensive branded medicines.)

"'Pag pumunta kayo ng drug store, sasabihin niyo po doon sa pharmasiya, 'Gusto ko lang po, maaari po ba iyong pinakamurang generic?'" she added.

(When you go to the drug store, tell them, "Can I please have the cheapest generic?")

Addressing a common notion that branded drugs are more effective than generics, Guerrero also said, "Lahat po iyan ay FDA-approved."

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(Those were all approved by the Food and Drug Administration.)

The cost of drugs, she mentioned, typically increases due to advertisement and retail charges by pharmacies or private hospitals.

The DOH earlier said it was considering asking President Rodrigo Duterte to sign an executive order that will set a price ceiling for 120 drugs.

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