title: Bioequivalence of antiepileptic drugs: how close is close enough?
abstract: During the past few years, the use and substitution of generic antiepileptic drug products has been increasing both in the United States as well as globally. Although these less expensive products may represent an important alternative for many patients, there may be reasons for concern. Despite well-controlled regulatory studies, concerns persist regarding potential therapeutic inequivalence in some patients with epilepsy. These concerns have prompted some in the US neurology community as well as patient advocacy groups to question the current regulatory requirements for both establishing bioequivalence as well as product substitution. In addition, recent data have questioned the actual cost savings associated with generic substitution in this unique patient population. This article reviews current regulatory requirements and pharmacokinetic, biopharmaceutical, and clinical outcome issues that clinicians, pharmacists, and policymakers should consider regarding generic substitution of these complicated agents.
authors.affiliation: School of Pharmacy and Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA. begidal@pharmacy.wisc.edu
authors.forename: Barry E
authors.initials: BE
authors.lastname: Gidal
mesh_terms: D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000191:economics / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004335:Drug and Narcotic Control; D016568:Drugs, Generic / Q000191:economics / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy*; D017048:Health Care Costs; D006801:Humans; D013810:Therapeutic Equivalency; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000927:Anticonvulsants; D016568:Drugs, Generic