Is there generic plavix?

Have you been wondering whether there is a cheaper version of Plavix in the market? Well, look no further because this article will shed some light on the topic.

What is Plavix?

Before we dive deep into it, let’s understand what exactly is Plavix. It is an antiplatelet drug that prevents blood clots and helps in reducing the risk of heart attacks or strokes caused by blockages in arteries. It works by preventing platelets from sticking together and forming clots.

Why do I need to know about the generic version of Plavix?

The brand name drug comes with a hefty price tag which may not be affordable for everyone. That’s where generic versions come into play – they offer similar efficacy as the brand name medication but at a fraction of its cost.

Here Comes The Generic Version!

Yes, there are generic versions available for Plavix now! After years of being exclusive to Bristol Myers Squibb, Sanofi finally won approval for their generic variant back in 2012. Since then many other manufacturers have started producing clopidogrel bisulfate tablets (the active ingredient found in Plavix) under various trade names.

How Effective Are They Really?

When it comes to effectiveness between branded drugs and generics; both demonstrate more or less similar results after consumption . FDA requires generics’ clinical trials must prove bioequivalence has been achieved ; meaning they should produce equal amounts of active ingredients successfully absorbed by our body system compared to its original counterpart.

It’s noteworthy here that two different formulations can look identical yet possess dissimilar pharmacokinetic performances when exposed to human biological fluids though efficacies might remain somewhat compatible often!

Bioequivalence: Explained

Bioequivalence indicates if two given medications meet up certain criteria regarding release times & dosage strengths needed over time with peak overall effect analysis supporting claimed benefits without posing disproportionate risks.

How can I identify if an available drug is a generic alternative to Plavix?

You see, the active pharmaceutical ingredient in both brand and generic counterparts are the same (clopidogrel bisulfate), therefore they may look identical bar packaging presentation. This makes recognizing generics visually all but impossible! But you could always check out trade names of products at pharmacy stores as well as before making online purchase!

Cost Comparison: Where Does The Generic Stand Amongst Its Competitors?

The cost of Plavix varies from region-to-region with name-brand pricing typically climbing up to over $120 for one monthly dose depending on locales. Generic variants by various manufacturers generally retail between 70%-90% less than their brand-name counterpart so you can expect to save about $100 a month when buying its most affordable versions . That’s going to give your wallet some much-needed relief!(side note – It is recommended that you do not switch medication without first consulting with your doctor.)

Here’s a table showing price comparisons across different regions –

Region Plavix Price/Month Generic Price/Month
US $132 $11
Canada C$1,400(350 tablets) C$95(300 tablets)
UK £51 £5
Germa-ny €49 €5
India ₹3502(~$47) ₹291(~$4)

Table based on surveys conducted by PharmaFocus

As this table shows, there is quite literally no reason why anyone should not opt for Generic versions now!

Are They As Safe As Branded Ones?

Generics hold almost the same safety profiles compared to their much-expensive predecessors because before launching any commercially viable product Drug regulators accurately scrutinize quality control of their manufacture . Additionally,independent studies have shown that the safety profiless of generics are also bioequivalent to their branded-versions.

The Final Verdict

With all things considered, there is generic Plavix and it’s quite effective -physiological response using the drug almost always remain uncanny to those after ingesting same dosages from its brand name counterpart .

Therefore, if you are seeking a cheaper alternative for your antiplatelet needs, then go forth and try out some generic clopidogrel bisulfate tablets; they may just be the saving grace you need financially while keeping up with prescribed therapeutic ^1
regimens!

Additional Safety Notes:

Even though it’s cheaper than traditional branding at times, do not let cost blindside yourself into foregoing one medicinal product over another solely based on price point .

It is highly recommended that individuals consult with primary care physician before starting or switching medications as allergies which cause hemoco-agulative disorder leading clot formation throughout ones cardiovascular system can sometimes develop under any medication regime.^2


Reference List:

^1 FDA (2019). Bioequivalence Guidance Documents Available from FDA [online]. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/guidance-compliance-regulatory-information/ bioequivalence-guidance-documents#. [Accessed 21 Nov 2020].

^2 Dudley D., Jensen M., & Mitchell B.; Hematological Toxicity due to Daptomycin Therapy in Cardiac Patients: Clinical and Pathologic Observations; American Journal of Blood Research Vol.5 No.4 October 2015,p15~23

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