Generic Medicines: Old wine in new bottle?

Generic medicines are cheap but effective alternative for improving access to life saving medicines in a country like India. Increasing challenge is being faced by the Indian generic industry because of gradual stricter regulatory requirements. In the process, generic medicines add cost. Increasing costs for maintaining quality assurance, anti-counterfeit steps are also challenges the generic industry is facing now. Some originator companies tactfully mislead the physician and public that generic medicines may be less safe and effective than their branded counterpart. Mass sensitisation regarding the generics, educational efforts and better communication among patients and health care professionals, are seen as major drivers to enhance confidence on generic medicines among consumers.