This chapter discusses the challenges faced by generic drug makers in challenging and replacing branded drugs with ineffective capsules that are priced high. It explores the incentives in the healthcare system that complicate the process of prescribing generics and emphasizes the role of advertising in influencing doctors and patients.
Robin Feldman of the University of California Hastings College of Law and author of Drug Wars talks about her book with EconTalk host Russ Roberts. Feldman explores the various ways that pharmaceutical companies try to reduce competition from generic drugs. The conversation includes a discussion of the Hatch-Waxman Act and the sometimes crazy world of patent protection.