A nursing student is reviewing the concept of a generic drug. Which statement is accurate?

A. Brand names are the same as generic names: Brand names and generic names are different. The brand name is the trademarked name given by the manufacturer, while the generic name is the drug's standard name. B. Once a drug's patent period has ended, the drug's trademark status is not protected, so other companies may produce the drug under its common or generic name. After a drug's patent expires, other companies can manufacture and sell the drug under its generic name, leading to the availability of generic versions of the drug. C. Active ingredients can vary between generic and brand name drugs. The active ingredient in generic drugs must be the same as in the brand name drug. However, inactive ingredients (e.g., fillers, binders) may vary. D. The name of a generic drug is capitalized: Generic drug names are not capitalized. They are written in lowercase, while brand names are capitalized.