Generic drugs are medications that have the same active ingredients, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as their brand-name counterparts, but are typically sold at a lower cost. They are used for the same indications and are designed to provide the same therapeutic effects as brand-name drugs. Once the patent on a brand-name drug expires, other manufacturers can produce and sell generic versions, which helps make essential medications more accessible and affordable to the public. Generic drugs undergo rigorous evaluation and approval processes by regulatory agencies to ensure they meet the same quality, safety, and efficacy standards as branded drugs.