Core Insights - Major multinational pharmaceutical companies like Merck, Eli Lilly, and GlaxoSmithKline have withdrawn dozens of original research drugs from registration in China over the past three years due to various reasons including failed negotiations with health insurance, competition from generic drugs, and cost pressures [1] - As of 2024, 161 imported drugs have not been re-registered in China, including both orphan drugs and widely used medications, indicating a significant impact on patient access to essential treatments [1] - The trend of original drug companies abandoning the market has led to a growing reliance on generic drugs, raising concerns among patients regarding the efficacy and safety of these alternatives, particularly for chronic and rare disease patients [1][2] Industry Trends - Over 90% of pharmaceutical companies in China are generic drug manufacturers, with over 95% of the 170,000 drug approvals being for generics, reflecting a strong market presence of generics [2] - Despite the government's efforts to enhance the quality of generics through consistency evaluations, public skepticism remains regarding the efficacy of low-cost generics, leading some patients to seek original drugs through alternative means [2][18] - The increase in cross-border medical travel for drug procurement is becoming more common, particularly among young patients and those with chronic conditions, as they seek original drugs that are no longer available domestically [18][26] Patient Behavior - Patients are increasingly resorting to self-funding for original drugs, traveling abroad, or utilizing gray areas in online healthcare to obtain necessary medications, indicating a shift in patient behavior driven by the unavailability of original drugs [2][19] - Stories of individuals like Sun Ping and Xu Chenggong illustrate the lengths to which patients will go to secure original medications, including studying abroad or traveling to countries like Thailand for treatment [3][13][14] - The reliance on online platforms for obtaining prescriptions and medications is growing, with patients willing to pay significantly more for original drugs due to concerns over the effectiveness of generics [20][24] Regulatory and Market Implications - The withdrawal of original drugs from the market poses challenges for the healthcare system, as patients face limited options and potential health risks associated with switching to generics [1][26] - The increasing trend of cross-border drug purchases raises questions about regulatory compliance and the safety of medications obtained through unofficial channels [12][18] - The healthcare system must address the balance between cost control and ensuring access to effective treatments, as the current situation leads to patients seeking alternatives outside the established healthcare framework [27]