title: Generic brands in the prevention of fragility fractures.
abstract: Generic drugs are safe and effective, but their prescription in Italy is among the lowest in Europe (30% to 60-70% in other Countries). According to a recently published retrospective study, generics are not statistically different from their corresponding brand counterpart in the therapy of osteoporosis, a bone defects characterized by a decrease in bone mineral density, which can lead to an increased frailty and risk of fracture. Unfortunately there are a lot of problems in compliance with these drugs: it is only about 7.19% in the first year, despite their consumption is simple and effective in the prevention of fracture. Various studies made by GPs are highlighting many barriers in the path from the contact with the doctor to the purchase at the pharmacy: the idea GPs have of generics, the patients' perception of it, the big amount of drugs in the pharmacies and the advice that comes from the pharmacist. The published study, proving non-inferiority of generics and lack of differences in mortality and access to specialists among those using generic and brand drugs, encourages to use those drugs that not only are safe and effective, but that are also good for the economical and financial balance of Italian sanitary system.
authors.affiliation: General Practitioner, Italian College of General Practice, National Secretary, Venice, Italy.
authors.forename: Raffaella
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Michieli
authors.affiliation: General Practitioner, Venice, Italy.
authors.forename: Camilla
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Callegaro
keywords: bisphosphonates; generic drug; osteoporosis