Authorized generics are identical copies of brand-name drugs made by the original manufacturer, launched to compete with generics after patent expiration. They lower prices, maintain consistency, and confuse patients-here's how they work.
The Hatch-Waxman Amendments of 1984 created the modern generic drug industry by balancing innovation incentives with faster market access. Today, 90% of U.S. prescriptions are generic, saving billions annually.
