Are generic formulations equivalent to trade name topical glucocorticoids?
Author(s): Stoughton RB Affiliation(s): Division of Dermatology, University of California-San Diego School of Medicine 92093. Publication date & source: 1987-10, Arch Dermatol., 123(10):1312-4. Publication type: Clinical Trial; Randomized Controlled Trial Trade name glucocorticoid formulations triamcinolone acetonide, fluocinolone acetonide, and betamethasone valerate were compared with their generic equivalents because of increasing substitution of generic formulations for trade name formulations. The vasoconstrictor assay was the method used for these comparisons. Large differences were found between generic and trade name formulations containing the same steroid in the same concentration in both cream and ointment vehicles. If generic substitutions are to be used for trade name formulations, the physician must be aware that significant differences in therapeutic effectiveness may be expected.
