Understanding Authorized Generic Drug [Food and Drugs]: A Comprehensive Guide

Definition & meaning

An authorized generic drug is a medication that is chemically identical to a brand-name drug and has been approved by the FDA. It is marketed under its chemical name but may have different packaging, labeling, or branding compared to the original brand-name product. These drugs are produced by the same manufacturer as the brand-name drug or by a different company under a licensing agreement. They are typically sold at a lower price than their brand-name counterparts, making them a more affordable option for consumers.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A pharmaceutical company produces an authorized generic version of a popular blood pressure medication. While the active ingredient and formulation are the same as the brand-name drug, it is sold under a different label and at a lower price.

Example 2: A hospital uses an authorized generic drug for its patients to reduce costs while ensuring they receive the same therapeutic benefits as the brand-name version. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Difference
Generic Drug A drug that is equivalent to a brand-name drug in dosage form, strength, route of administration, quality, and performance characteristics. Authorized generics are marketed under their chemical name and may differ in branding, while generics can be produced by different manufacturers.
Brand-name Drug The original product developed by a pharmaceutical company, protected by patent. Brand-name drugs are typically more expensive and have exclusive marketing rights until their patent expires.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering switching to an authorized generic drug, consult your healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for your treatment. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates related to medication management and patient rights. If you face legal issues regarding drug access or pricing, consider seeking professional legal assistance.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Approval Process FDA approval under section 505(c)
Cost Generally lower than brand-name drugs
Quality Standards Must meet FDA standards for safety and efficacy

Key takeaways

FAQs

Authorized generics are produced by the same manufacturer as the brand-name drug, while regular generics can be made by different companies.