Generic name for hydrochlorothiazide
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Generic Name for Hydrochlorothiazide: An Overview
Introduction to Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a widely used diuretic medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension and mild to moderate edema. It belongs to the thiazide class of diuretics and is considered highly effective by healthcare professionals2.
Pharmaceutical Equivalence and Quality Control
Several studies have evaluated the pharmaceutical equivalence and quality of hydrochlorothiazide formulations. One study assessed the quality of various pharmaceutical formulations containing HCTZ through quality control and thermal characterization tests. It was found that some generic versions did not meet the required pharmaceutical equivalence standards, particularly due to incompatibility with excipients like lactose and mannitol1. Another study compared the dissolution profiles of reference and generic HCTZ medicines, revealing that while most generics met the required standards, some did not achieve the necessary plasma levels for effective absorption2.
Bioequivalence and Interchangeability
The bioequivalence of generic HCTZ products has been a subject of extensive research. A meta-analysis confirmed the interchangeability of several generic HCTZ products, ensuring that they meet the necessary bioequivalence criteria. This interchangeability is crucial for maintaining therapeutic efficacy and safety when patients switch between different generic brands4. Additionally, a comparative study of a brand-name and a generic triamterene-hydrochlorothiazide combination product found no significant differences in clinical efficacy, safety, or bioavailability, further supporting the reliability of generic formulations3.
Quality Concerns in Generic Hydrochlorothiazide
Despite the general acceptance of generic HCTZ products, quality concerns persist. A study conducted in Salvador, Brazil, highlighted that while most generic and similar HCTZ medicines complied with pharmacopoeial standards, some generics failed to meet the assay specifications, raising concerns about their quality and reliability5. This underscores the importance of rigorous quality control measures to ensure the safety and efficacy of generic medications.
Conclusion
Hydrochlorothiazide is a critical medication for managing hypertension and edema, with numerous generic versions available. While most generics meet the required standards for pharmaceutical equivalence and bioequivalence, some quality concerns remain. Continuous monitoring and stringent quality control are essential to ensure that all generic HCTZ products provide the same therapeutic benefits as their brand-name counterparts.
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