Generics
There are currently many troubling issues surrounding generic medicines for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. There is an abundance of illegal generics on the internet breaking the patent ownership, yet the unregulated companies that produce and supply potentially dangerous products such as Soft-tab Cialis and Kamagra now enjoy strong brand recognition because of their lower prices.
It is vitally important that consumers understand exactly what a generic medicine is in the context of the treatment of erectile dysfunction and that they ensure that they only purchase genuine branded treatments and never generic Viagra, generic Cialis or generic Levitra.
What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection. The generic name is the official medical name for the active ingredient of the medicine. The brand name is chosen by the manufacturer, usually on the basis that it can be recognised, pronounced and remembered by health professionals and members of the public. An example would be Viagra - this is the well-known brand name given by Pfizer to the generic medicine sildenafil.
Are Generics Drugs Legal?
Generic drugs can be legally produced for drugs where the patent has expired. About 10-12 years after a new medicine is introduced, the patent (exclusive rights) runs out, and then other drug manufacturers are allowed to produce it. These are often cheaper than the original brand, and may be sold under the generic name or new brand names.
In the case of treatments for ED, patents have not run out on any of the treatments. Therefore any production of generic Viagra, generic Cialis or generic Levitra is illegal.
Are Generic Drugs Safe?
G eneric medicines should comply with the same strict standards of quality, safety and efficacy as original pharmaceutical products. When the patent runs out, generic drugs undergo strict scrutiny before it is licensed and given market approval by national medicines authorities. This is not the case with generic Viagra, generic Cialis or generic Levitra. The lucrative business of selling illegal generic drugs on the internet has led to the establishment of many small backyard operations in developing countries, operating with low overhead and labour costs and no regulatory oversight.
There is a high probability that the treatment will not work or could even prove detrimental to one's health. Drugs sold by an unlicensed pharmacy may be:
- outdated or expired,
- may be manufactured in substandard facilities,
- may contain dangerous ingredients, may have been improperly stored,
- may be too strong or too weak.
