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TORONTO — Mylan Pharmaceuticals ULC, the Canadian arm of Mylan Inc., has introduced an online resource to help Canadians learn more about the value, reliability and quality of generic drugs.
Called ChoosingGenerics.ca, the website is a public awareness tool that aims to dispel common misconceptions about generic medications and help Canadians learn more about their benefits, Mylan said Monday.
Organized in three sections, ChoosingGenerics.ca helps visitors learn the facts about generic drugs and understand their cost savings versus a brand-name equivalent medicine. It also provides helpful tools to talk to doctors and pharmacists about prescription medications.
The site also includes a personal medication tracker and instructions on how to read a prescription drug label. Available in English and French, the resource provides a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions and "myths and facts" to help consumers grasp the advantages of generic pharmaceuticals.
"One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to pharmaceutical products is that if it costs more, then it must be of better quality," stated Richard Guest, president of Mylan’s business in Canada. "This idea couldn’t be more wrong. Generic drugs are every bit as safe, potent and effective as brand-name drugs. Generic drug companies have been providing patients in Canada with safe and affordable medicines for more than 50 years."
Generic drug manufacturers must demonstrate to Health Canada that a drug is "bioequivalent" to the branded version, meaning that it is equal in dosage, safety, strength, quality, the way it works in the body and the way it is taken, Mylan said. Many Canadians aren’t aware of the efficacy of generics and end up spending more on drugs than they need to, the company pointed out.
In Canada, generic drugs cost consumers an average of 60% less than their brand-name counterparts, Mylan reported.
"In 2011, generic drugs filled more than 60% of all prescriptions dispensed in Canada and helped save consumers, governments and employers nearly $8.5 billion," commented Jim Keon, president of the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association. "They are one of the best ways to reduce health care costs while maintaining the same quality of medication. Consumers should get into the habit of asking their doctor and pharmacists about generic drug options."
