GPhA demands an end to the 'anti-competitive' abuses which 'stifle generics'

The US Generic Pharmaceutical Association (GPhA) welcomed the holding of Senate Aging Committee discussions on Thursday over what it calls the ‘anti-competitive business practices’ of some brand manufacturers to stifle generics.

A statement has been released in relation to the issue by Chip Davis, president and chief executive of the GPhA, which represents generic firms and aims to ensure Americans have access to affordable drugs.

His statement reads: “As costs associated with the use of branded specialty medicines continue to rise, public analysis and review of business practices designed explicitly to restrict generic competition are more important than ever. It is equally important to understand the difference between what the Committee discussed today - self-imposed restricted distribution agreements utilized by select companies to thwart generic entry - and those mandated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to protect public health and safety. While GPhA recognizes there are abuses in FDA mandated Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) programs, we are pleased that the committee paid needed attention to the abuse of voluntary restricted distribution agreements by certain companies.”