Are Generic Drugs Just as Good?

Generic Drugs have the exact same effective medication as brand name drugs, as the FDA states. However, they cost a fraction of the price. Whether you are uninsured, underinsured or want to pay the lowest price possible, I will help you to find safe and low-cost generics up to 80 percent less than US drug prices. And, feel free send me a comment to tell me how much money that you saved.

It is useful to understand the facts about generic drugs because each year generic drugs save consumers billions of dollars. So what is a generic drug? And is it less effective than a brand name drug?



Generic drugs work in exactly the same way (mechanism of action in the body, dosages, potency and delivery forms, e.g. tablet, liquid, gel capsules, patches) as brand name drugs. The only difference is in the packaging of inactive ingredients such as color and flavor. The FDA requires generic drugs to contain equivalent active ingredients to brand name drugs. This article will help you to understand more about generic drugs.

Important facts to consider:
1)The major difference between brand name drugs and generic drugs is PRICE. Generic drugs cost much less than their brand name counterparts and allow the savings to be passed on to consumers.
2)Generic drugs work in the same manner as brand name drugs, but if you are not sure about the medication that your doctor has prescribed, than you should consult with a pharmacist and have him/her address any questions or concerns that you have pertaining to the generics.
3)The reason brand name drugs look different than generic drugs is due to U.S. trademark laws requiring all generic drugs to appear physically different from their brand name equivalent.
4)Consult with a pharmacist or speak with your doctor if you wish to change, but are not sure about switching from a brand name drug to a generic brand to save money. The pharmacist will contact your doctor and ask him/her in person about the change.
5)Check out the FDA's Electronic Orange Book, a website that provides a list of available generic drugs along with their brand name equivalents, as well as the active ingredients contained in each medication (see Resources below).
6)Always speak with your doctor about the medications you are taking or any new drugs that are being prescribed. If you want to switch from brand name drugs to generic drugs (or vice versa), ask the doctor if this is possible. He/she will make the final decision based on your particular medical conditions and indications.
7)Understand your health care coverage plan, as each plan differs in coverage options and choices in types or forms of medication allowed to be prescribed by a doctor.

Tips & Warnings

* Always carry a list of the drugs and dosages you are taking when you travel. It is especially important in foreign countries where doctors might not be able to recognize the brand names.
* Never switch medications without consulting with your medical doctor.
* Be VERY CAREFUL about going into foreign countries to purchase generic drugs or using online mail order services to purchase your medications.
* This article is not a substitute or replacement for seeking professional medical attention from your own medical doctor or healthcare professional.

Resources

* * Food and Drug Administration
* * U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institute of Health
* * Healthy Updates
* * Jewell Productions TV