The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh is committed to prescribing and promoting generic drugs. Contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that generic drugs are just as effective as branded drugs – even in diseases as serious as cancer.
PGIMER Director Vivek Lal cited a study in which the generic counterpart of the expensive drug pomalidomide was found to be superior to the innovative drugs available in the US. This is particularly encouraging as pomalidomide is used to treat multiple myeloma, a form of cancer.
Lal also quoted another study which found that generic drugs are equally effective when preparing a patient for organ transplant. These generic drugs cost just one-fifth of their branded counterparts.
Dispelling the myth about quality control in Jan Aushdhi Centres, Lal explained that India has the highest number of FDA-approved factories outside of the US. The PGIMER takes drugs only from WHO-approved plants and every batch is checked by NABL labs at regular intervals. Therefore, quality is ensured at the Jan Aushdhi Centres.
The PGIMER purchases a significantly larger number of generic drugs than branded ones. During the 2022-23 period, 88% of drugs purchased were generic, while only 12% were branded.
During the past three months, sales from seven Amrit Pharmacy Centres amounted to Rs 44 crore, while two Jan Aushadhi Centres had sales of Rs 72 lakh. This shows that the PGIMER’s preference for generic drugs is paying off, both in terms of cost-effectiveness and efficacy.
By promoting and prescribing generic drugs, the PGIMER is setting an example for other healthcare providers to follow. Patients can benefit from the cost savings without compromising on the quality of their treatment. The evidence is clear – generic drugs are just as effective as their branded counterparts, and healthcare providers should keep this in mind when making treatment recommendations.
