Specifically for drugs like Semaglutide, Monjauro, Cialis, Viagra, thyroid medications, and Eroxon?
I’ve been getting a lot of questions from patients about generic versus brand-name medications. Although generics supposedly contain the same active ingredient as their brand-name counterparts, my clinical experience has shown me that generics generally do not work as well as trade-name medications. This is especially true for drugs like Semaglutide, Monjauro, Cialis, Viagra, thyroid medications, and Eroxon, which is approved OTC but not yet available in the U.S.
The Differences Between Generic and Brand-Name Medications
While generic drugs are supposed to contain the same active ingredient, the fillers and rate of delivery can differ, affecting how well the drug works. For example, a person may not experience allergies or side effects with the trade-name drug Synthroid, but switching to the generic version (often due to insurance issues) may result in side effects or reduced effectiveness, as reported by patients and confirmed through lab work.
These differences can be attributed to the fillers used and the design of the capsules or tablets, which determines the rate of delivery. For instance, if the medication is best absorbed in the stomach but the generic formulation causes it to be absorbed in the small intestines instead, the medication may not work effectively. Conversely, a drug that should release slowly over 24 hours may release too quickly within the first hour, causing gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting. This rapid release can also lead to side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure.
Efficacy and Tolerability
- Efficacy: How well the drug works
- Tolerability: How well the patient tolerates the drug
If either efficacy or tolerability is compromised, serious issues can arise.
Quality Control and Manufacturing Concerns
Quality control is crucial in ensuring that the manufacturer’s claims about the drug’s content and dosage are accurate. However, variations in fillers can lead to sensitivities to proteins, gluten, milk products, peanuts, etc. Additionally, the country of manufacturing can impact quality, with many generics coming from countries with varying levels of quality control.
Insurance and Financial Considerations
Insurance companies often prefer the cheapest drugs, usually generics, regardless of their effectiveness. If you try to get a brand-name drug, you’ll likely face higher costs or significant paperwork, which many doctors’ offices are too burdened to handle. This often results in patients giving up and not receiving the best treatment.
At the very least, make sure that any drug or supplement for that matter, is GMP Certified with the official logo (many will also fake the logo by the way), or is certified Pharmaceutical Grade!
Top Generic Drugs That Have Issues
1. Synthroid: Generic versions can have varying amounts of the active ingredient and different absorption rates, making them less reliable.
2. PDE-5 inhibitors (e.g., Viagra, Cialis): Generics often do not work as well and can cause significant side effects. Eroxon, an FDA-approved topical OTC erectile dysfunction cream, is a safer alternative.
3. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (e.g., Ozempic, Monjauro, Wegovy): These are often costly, leading patients to seek compounded versions of questionable quality.
4. Prolia: A highly effective osteoporosis treatment that is often replaced with less effective and side effect-prone generic bisphosphonates.
5. Blood Pressure Medications: Variations in fillers and delivery systems can lead to inconsistent effectiveness and serious side effects.
6. Controlled Medications (e.g., Benzodiazepines, Pain Medications): Poor quality can lead to improper dosing and significant health risks. Narcan is a recommended safety measure for opioids.
Summary: Generic vs. Brand Drugs
I find that generics often do not work as well and may be riskier than brand-name medications, especially for the classes mentioned above. Do your homework, ensure you’re getting verifiably certified GMP or Pharmaceutical-Grade products, and consult with your doctor or pharmacist for options. GoodRx is a useful app for comparing drug prices.
At Unison Pro-Youth Institute in Palm Beach, FL, we only use reputable pharmacies and supplement providers that offer the best in quality, service, and price. For more information and to sign up for our emails and blogs, visit unisonproyouth.com. You can also purchase my books at midlifehealthguideformen.com and midlifehealthguideforwomen.com. Contact us at [email protected] or 561-779-4558. Great health and happiness! – Chris Rao, MD
Note: The information presented is not meant to replace personal health decisions; please discuss with your PCP or us. Trade names are registered trademarks.
