Many users assert that these programs are equal to or superior to the brand-name counterparts.

Generic drugs are usually priced 30 percent to 60 percent less than brand-name counterparts, and the generic market is likely to divert a large chunk of business from Schering-Plough.

Since generics use the same active ingredients and are shown to work the same way in the body, they have the same risks and benefits as their brand-name counterparts.

Q: Are generic versions of drugs really just as good (and safe) as their brand-name counterparts?

Paradoxically, the arrival of generic competition often results in raised prices for their brand-name counterparts, as companies seek to maximize revenue in a shrinking market.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), generic drugs are identical or within an acceptable bioequivalent range to the brand-name counterpart with respect to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties.

Generic drugs generally cost one-tenth to one-half the price of their brand-name counterparts.

They cost about half as much as their brand-name counterparts because of price competition among makers once the patent on a brand-name product expires, usually after 17 years.

Why are generic drugs so much cheaper than their brand-name counterparts?

I-f generic drugs are cheaper than their brand-name counterparts but have the same safety, effectiveness and active ingredient, why do people still take brand-name drugs?