Pharmacy researchers publish study on Generic Drug Quality in Acta Medica Philippina
Date Posted: May 22, 2025 at 04:41 PM
A team of researchers from the Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy program of Adamson University, together with faculty co-researchers, has successfully published a significant research article in Acta Medica Philippina, the official peer-reviewed medical and health sciences journal of the University of the Philippines Manila.
The paper, titled “In Vitro Bioequivalence Analysis of Generic Metformin Hydrochloride Film-coated Tablets,” was authored by Zsarie Buenavidez, Athea Kathleen Brum, Krizia Marie Manzo, and Zenia Luisa Mora, in collaboration with faculty researchers Assoc. Prof. Perlita Crucis, April Mergelle Lapuz, Dr. Kevin Jace Miranda and Dr. Rogie Royce Carandang.
Photo: Acta Media Philippina
The study addresses a critical issue in public health and pharmaceutical regulation, namely the quality and therapeutic interchangeability of generic drugs. It evaluates the in vitro bioequivalence of various generic metformin hydrochloride film-coated tablets, a frontline oral medication for managing type 2 diabetes, available in the Philippine market.
Using stringent quality control tests based on United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards, the researchers found that while most tested generics met required quality specifications and were bioequivalent to the innovator drug Glucophage, one brand failed the bioequivalence criteria, and three did not meet the hardness standard. These findings underscore the need for enhanced post-market surveillance and stricter regulatory oversight to ensure the safety, efficacy, and consistency of generic drugs distributed to the public.
The study was first presented at the 6th South Manila Educational Consortium (SMEC) Congress held last February 23, 2024, at The Manila Prince Hotel.
