Generic drugs are perhaps the bane of pharmaceutical companies’ existence, but the creation of any generic means a great deal of savings for those taking the medications. Generic drug manufacturers wisely monitor medications and develop their version that can be sold to the public once the patent for the brand name version expires. In an increasingly difficult economic climate, generic drugs are becoming the first choice for consumers. Hundreds of generics exist, but here are the top ten selling generic drugs from 2009.
1. Fentanyl (generic version of Durogesic Patch) This time-release version of the popular patch is at the top of the list, despite several similar competitors.
2. Amlodipine besylate and benazepril hydrochloride (generic version of Norvasc) A medication intended to treat hypertention and chronic chest pain.
http://www.thedrugcompany.com/blood_pressure/amlodipine/
3. Metoprolol succinate (generic version of Toprol) Used to treat primary hypertension.
http://www.thedrugcompany.com/blood_pressure/metoprolol
4. Lamotrigine (generic version of Lamictal) Treats symptoms of bipolar disorder and also epilepsy.
http://www.thedrugcompany.com/product/lamotrigine
5. Risperidone (generic version of Risperdal) Made to treat symptoms of mania and schizophrenia.
http://www.thedrugcompany.com/mood_disorder/risperidone/
6. Omeprazole (generic version of Prilosec) Originally created for stomach acidity, its also used to treat cancer of the small intestine.
http://www.thedrugcompany.com/product/omeprazole
7. Azithromycin (generic version of Zithromax) The generic version of the widely used, very popular Z-Pack, the top selling antibiotic at the time the patent expired.
http://www.thedrugcompany.com/product/azithromycin
8. Bupropion (generic version of Wellbutrin) Originally created as an antidepressant, this medication is now used to treat cravings when people quit smoking or go on a diet.
http://www.thedrugcompany.com/product/bupropion
9. Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (generic version of Vicodin) A narcotic treatment for moderate to severe pain.
10. Levothyroxine (generic version of Synthroid) Used to treat low levels of thyroid hormone.
http://www.thedrugcompany.com/thyroid_disease/synthroid/
Generic drugs can be an affordable alternative to brand name pharmaceuticals and are tested in the same way prior to public release. The facilities that produce generic drugs must meet the same standards as the original manufacturer and the research dollars that went into creating the name-brand medication are no longer necessary. Thanks to this, significant savings can be passed onto the consumer. Many health insurance plans not only encourage the prescription of generic medications when possible, they have made it part of their standard of practice in order to decrease costs to the consumer.