Learn More ♥ Live Healthier
Brand-name vs Generic Drugs
Published December 12, 2023
Facts about Brand-Name and Generic Medications:
Number 1:
- Generic drugs contain the same active ingredient as the brand-name drug.
Number 2:
- Brand-name and Generic drugs inactive ingredients could be different.
- Individuals taking a drug may have sensitivities to different ingredients.
Number 3:
- Due to United States trademark laws, a generic drug is not allowed to look exactly the same as the brand-name drug.
- The difference in appearance may make it difficult for both patient and the healthcare provider to accurately identify the drug.
Number 4:
- The generic form of a drug most likely costs less than the brand-name drug.
- Insurance companies may not cover the brand-name if the generic is available at a cheaper price.
- Due to cost and insurance coverage, an individual may not have a choice in whether to take the brand-name or generic.
Number 5:
- Manufacturing plants differ from brand-name and generic drug.
- Multiple pharmaceutical companies may manufacture the generic drug. Therefore the inactive ingredients may differ among the generic form of the drug as well as the brand-name.
In summary:
- A generic drug can be cheaper than a brand-name drug.
- If you have sensitivities, make sure you check the inactive ingredients.
- Try to be consistent when taking a prescription. Stay with either the brand-name or generic.
- When taking a generic prescription, make sure the pharmacist fills it with the same manufacture.
- Check to make sure the drug looks the same. If it doesn’t, it may be switched from a brand-name to a generic or a different generic.
- Be aware of any reactions you may have due to a change in your prescription.
The key is to research, ask questions, and most importantly be aware.
The following are just a couple of the sites you can visit for more information:
- MedlinePlus, accessed November 29, 2023. Get information regarding medication.
- WebMD, accessed November 29, 2023. Information regarding medication.
Learn More
♥
Live Healthier
Medical Disclaimer: We share informational resources that are intended to help you with your self-care plan. We are not professionals. We write based on personal experience and personal research.
Nothing on this Website is intended to be taken as medical advice. The information provided on the Website is intended to encourage, not replace, direct patient-health professional relationships. Always consult with your doctor before altering your medications. Adding nutritional supplements may alter the effect of medication. Any medication changes should be done only after proper evaluation and under medical supervision.
General Disclaimer: This site contains links to other internet sites. We are not endorsing any products or services in these sites nor are we endorsing or did we approve information within these sites. Each site contains its own “Privacy Policy”,