A study indicates that state running Medicaid programs can save $100 millions annually. This saving is possible only when all the state medicaid programs start using generic version of brand drug when it is available. Branded drugs manufacturer lose exclusive patent right protection after 20 years from the day patent was issued. No one can produce similar drug during this period. Generic version of the respective brand drug can legally be produced after the protection period expires.
This point out different policies being implemented in different states across America. Policies in some states do not allow physician to prescribe generic version without permission by patients. Other sates, such as Massachusetts, allow physicians to prescribe generic version as soon as patent expires.
Experts tracked and compare prescription of generic drug between two groups of states, say, with or without permission states. Almost 96%-98% prescriptions were filled with generic substitute of Zocor, a cholesterol medications whose patent expired in 2006, in states that do not require seeking patient permission. On the other hand only 1/3 prescriptions were with generic version in states that require permission.
The timing of study is important when patent of blockbuster top selling prescription drugs (Lipitor and Plavix) are due to expire in next couple of years. "If policy that does not require patient consent is executed across the USA, it would save $100 Millions annually." Dr. Troyen Brennan added.
Link to publication
This point out different policies being implemented in different states across America. Policies in some states do not allow physician to prescribe generic version without permission by patients. Other sates, such as Massachusetts, allow physicians to prescribe generic version as soon as patent expires.
Experts tracked and compare prescription of generic drug between two groups of states, say, with or without permission states. Almost 96%-98% prescriptions were filled with generic substitute of Zocor, a cholesterol medications whose patent expired in 2006, in states that do not require seeking patient permission. On the other hand only 1/3 prescriptions were with generic version in states that require permission.
The timing of study is important when patent of blockbuster top selling prescription drugs (Lipitor and Plavix) are due to expire in next couple of years. "If policy that does not require patient consent is executed across the USA, it would save $100 Millions annually." Dr. Troyen Brennan added.
Link to publication
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