Brand name drugs are medications that are marketed under a specific name given by the pharmaceutical company that developed them. These names are often trademarked, meaning that only the company can use them. Brand name drugs are typically sold at a higher price compared to their generic counterparts, as the company invests in research, development, and marketing. When a brand name drug's patent expires, other manufacturers can create and sell generic versions. These generics contain the same active ingredients and are considered equally effective, but they are usually sold at a lower cost. This competition helps to make medications more affordable for consumers.