When it comes to medication, most of us opt for branded drugs as they are more expensive and rasa diaorang offer better quality. Tapi apa yang ramai taktahu kan is that generic drugs are just as effective as their branded counterparts, cuma murah sikit lah. So why aren’t generic drugs more well-known in Malaysia?
Nak tahu kenapa?
Well, one reason could be that there is a lack of awareness. I mean, how many of you have even heard of the term “generic drug”? Tak banyak kan? In fact, according to a 2014 study, only 49% of patients were aware that generic drugs existed. This is likely because there is little to no information about generic drugs available to the public.
Another reason could be the perception that generic drugs are of lower quality or less efficacious than branded drugs. Benda ni tak betul tau – generic drugs must meet the same strict quality standards as branded drugs in order to be approved for sale. In fact, they are often manufactured in the same facilities and use the same ingredients.
I mean, I completely understand – we live in 2023, where brands are more valued. But when it comes to medications, generics are just as potent as branded ones. Tahu tak kenapa? Sebab generic drugs contain the same active ingredients as the branded version, but may have a different inactive ingredient or shape.
Because of this, they are often referred to as ‘biosimilar‘, meaning that their chemical structure is very similar, but not exactly the same. This shows that generic drugs can be used interchangeably with branded medicines without any issues or risks. So, jangan risau guys!
We’ve discussed the potential causes, so let’s look at some of the advantages.
As I said before, generic drugs are cheaper than branded drugs. Sebab manufacturers of branded drugs have to recoup the costs of developing and marketing their products. On the other hand, generic manufacturers don’t have these costs, so they can sell their products at a lower price. Makes sense, kan? Cheaper doesn’t always equate to worse quality, and vice versa. Bukan selalu macam tu lah.
Selain being more affordable than their branded counterparts, generic drugs ada kelebihan yang lain juga. For example, they help keep our healthcare system affordable. The high cost of branded drugs puts a strain on our healthcare system. By switching to generics, we can help keep healthcare costs down for everyone. It’s a win-win situation, for both the patients and the system.
Generics are often easy to find and are widely available for many conditions that are equivalent to branded-drugs – saving time and hassle! Lagipun, they are of the same high quality as their more expensive counterparts, which could be advantageous for individuals who need to be on longer-term medications – saving some money.
So there you have it!
After reading this, you should have a better understanding of generics and their advantages. Jadi why not give generic drugs a try next time you need medication? Not only will you be getting just as good of a product, but you’ll also be saving yourself some money in the process!
Kalau tak pasti generics yang mana sesuai, then do consult your trusted physicians, ok?
Seronok baca? Jom get instant alerts on how you can take charge of your health by subscribing to our newsletter. All the T’s (topics, trends, tips and tricks, and tidbits) conveniently in your inbox!
Disclaimer: Our content is strictly for educational and informational purposes only. Healthlah.com does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
