What type of drug is comparable to the brand name product but is not protected by a patent?

A generic drug is a medication that is chemically identical to a brand name product and is used for the same medical purpose. The key difference is that generic drugs are not protected by the same patents that protect brand name drugs. Once a patent expires, other manufacturers can produce a generic version of the medication, allowing for more affordable options to become available to patients. This is significant in promoting accessibility and competition in the pharmaceutical market, leading to lower prices for consumers without compromising on the efficacy or safety standards established by regulatory bodies.

In contrast, compound drugs involve custom formulations created by pharmacists to meet individual patient needs, typically when standard medications are unsuitable. Brand name drugs are patented and marketed under a trademarked name, often being the original formulation created by pharmaceutical companies. Controlled substances refer to drugs that are regulated due to their potential for abuse and dependency, and this category does not directly relate to the comparison of patent status with generic alternatives.