The bioequivalence of generic and original drugs: An in vitro study.

ABSTRACT

We compare the bioequivalence of selected original and generic drugs which were dispensed in Siriraj Hospital in 1994. The 14 items which consist of 7 local and 7 original drugs were chosen on the basis of volume of consumption and price differentials. The in vitro equivalence studies used were assay, weight variation, content uniformity, dissolution test and/or disintregration test. Tested samples of the two groups were Sorbitrate vs. Isotrat 20 mg, Lopid vs. Hidil 300 mg, Nolvades-D vs. Tamoplex 20 mg, Sibilium vs. Flunazine 5 mg, Adalat vs. Nelapine 5 mg, Herbesser vs. Dilatam 30 mg and Tarivid vs. Occidal 100 mg. This study demonstrated no difference of the in vitro test of local and original drugs, suggesting comparable quality of generics to originals.