How does the generic name for a drug reflect the drug’s chemical composition?

by Admin on December 13, 2009

How does the generic name for a drug reflect the drug’s chemical composition?

{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }

leoccleo December 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm

It doesn’t, really. The package insert or brochure that describes the drug information will usually have structure and the exact chemical composition. Those names are long and involved, so there is a shortcut. But, parts of the name are realted to the structure- like dihydrate or maleate. These are actual chemical "suffixes" and relate directly to parts of the compound.

Shaker December 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm

Doesn’t. It’s just made more cheaply, thus the savings are passed on to you.

lala15 December 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm

it doesn’t, its just a name…

Laser Jim December 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm

IT DOESNT! They are exactly the same. You are only paying for the "name" of the drug, nothing else. Go generic.

Eat Fish December 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm

IDK, whatca got, Dude?

Celeste . December 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm

I don’t think it does, but I’m no chemist, so I can’t really answer your question. Ask some chemists or the doctor the next time you get sick and visit him… which is hopefully not too soon. I mean, who wants to get sick?!

bob shark December 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm

It doesn’t, The drug has a chemical composition that could be a long involved name, A drug company likes to name it so it can be remembered by the public, so they name it.
When the patent expires, other companies can make it, but must call it something else, The composition is the same, the chemical is the same, the Trade name is different.

maxx December 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm

Whenever you are looking up drugs, one of the very best sources, is the P.D.R., (Physicians Desk Reference) . I’ve been to a lot of libraries all over the U.S., and every one has a P.D.R. or two.

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