Zytiga versus Generic?

[guardian5]

Hi! Asking a question for my Dad. Recently my Dad's insurance provider will no longer pay for his branded Zytiga, and instead wants him to be on the generic version. I understand that the generic is virtually the same - but does anyone know if there are any know differences even if slight? Any differences in side effects? Has anyone read any articles on this? Thank you!!!

[guardian5]

Oh! Also he's taking Zytiga in the castrate sensitive stage still along with Prednisone.

[Hidden]

I've been taking the generic for quite a while and no diffrence in side effects. Still have undetectable PSA. As they say: Can't argue with results!

[Mascouche]

I don't think that generic drugs are supposed to be different than the original. To my understanding it's simply that the exclusivity patent or license has run out and other suppliers can now manufacture it too and usually at a lower price. It should not be a different "recipe" as then it would become a different drug rather than a generic. But I am no expert in the matter.

[Gearhead]

I had the same concern when generic Zytiga (abiraterone) first became available. I noticed that the tablets even looked different -- smooth tan vs chalky white. But, primarily because the difference in my copay is substantial, I switched to the generic a little over a year ago. I can't detect any difference in effect, but of course that isn't a scientifically valid comparison.

[treedown]

I have only taken generic so can't compare but my response was favorable and other than a reduction in dosage due to low blood counts no side effects specific to it. Watch the liver #s closely whichever version he uses.

[leo2634]

Only difference is price. I have been on generic Zytiga almost three years.

[youngigor]

Year one used brand version, year two used generic. Couldn't tell a difference.

On vacation now, but if have to use in the future will (probably be forced by ins. to) take generic.

[Nukepharmd]

Generic drugs have the same active ingredients as brand name by law, where they differ is in the fillers etc that allows the generic to be made. Generics piggyback off the original mfg work to create them. By law they must be 95% or better of the brand in order to pass FDA approval. Also, lots of drug companies own their own generic makers therefore making more profits, without passing savings that should be saved by the consumer. Marketing drives so much cost of drugs.

[SPEEDYX]

I feel no differences....dealing with insurance makes it necessary otherwise even more comes out of pockets!!!

[Magnus1964]

The generic can be trusted.

[guardian5]

Thanks everyone for the help!