A generic drug contains the same active pharmaceutical ingredient as the original innovator drug product. It is bioequivalent and comparable to the original including intended use, quality, performance, characteristics, dosage form, strength and route of administration. Generic drugs are popular because they cost less than brand-name drugs.
Hydrocodone Combined with Acetaminophen
IMS Health says that in 2009 there were over 128 million dispensed prescriptions of hydrocodone combined with acetaminophen, often abbreviated HYCD/APAP, making it the most popular generic drug. Physicians prescribe this drug combination to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid narcotic pain reliever, classified as a controlled substance. It is among the most popular abused prescription drugs. Acetaminophen relieves aches and pains. The product is available in tablet, capsule or syrup. Side effects from this drug product include constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms associated with overdose include difficulty breathing, cold skin, low blood pressure, extreme drowsiness, coma and death.
Simvastatin
Simvastatin was the second leading dispensed generic drug in 2009, with 83 million prescriptions. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists says that simvastatin is in a class of medications called statins, drugs that reduce cholesterol and other fatty substances in the blood, when used together with lifestyle changes such as diet, weight-loss and exercise. Simvastin slows down the production of cholesterol in the liver by inhibiting an enzyme called 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase that is involved with production of cholesterol. Simvastatin is available in a tablet that is taken one to three times daily. The drug should not be taken with grapefruit juice, since this will interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. Common side effects from simvastatin include constipation, muscle pain, lack of energy, yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, extreme tiredness, rash, itching and swelling. Alcohol can exacerbate the side effects. Simvastitin use can increase the risk of muscle injury in patients taking 80mg compared to lower doses of the drug.
Lisinopril
There were 81 million prescriptions dispensed for lisonopril in 2009. Lisinopril is in a class of drugs called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors that are used to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure and to improve survival after a heart attack. Lisipril should not be taken by women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant because the drug can cause birth defects. Common side effects from lisinopril include feeling lightheaded, fainting, frequent urination, chills, fever, body aches, chest pains, rapid weight gain, drowsiness, headache, nausea and skin rash. Lisinopril should not be taken with potassium supplement, lithium, gold injections, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or diuretics, since these medications can interfere with the effectiveness of treatment.
