Learn About Generic Drugs:

What are generic prescription drugs?
Generics prescription drugs are drugs that have the same ingredients, doses, effectiveness, safety, routes of
administration, quality and performance characteristics as brand name drugs.

Why should I use generic drugs?
Generics drugs usually cost much less than their name brand counterparts. If you have insurance, your co-pay is much
lower. In fact, you can save 30 percent to 60 percent by using generic drug alternatives. And if you purchase them from us you can save far more!

Why are generic drugs cheaper than brand name ones?
They're less expensive because of the patent system. When they are first introduced, most new drugs are patent-protected by the government for many years. During that time, other companies can't sell the exact drug. This allows the company that developed the drug to market it exclusively and make back the research money that was spent to develop the drug.

Are generic drugs as strong as brand name drugs?
The FDA requires generics to have the same quality, strength, purity and stability as name brand drugs, so you can be sure they are just as strong as the brand names. They work the same way and in the same amount of time as brand names, too. Generic drugs have to meet the same rigid standards as brand names. This means that Generic Drugs must:

Have the same active ingredients as the brand name drug
Have the same strength, dosage (pill, liquid or injection) and how the drug is taken
Have the same indications for use
Meet the same batch requirements for identity, strength, purity and quality
Be manufactured under the same strict standards as the FDA's good manufacturing practice regulations required for innovator products

Are generics as safe to use as brand name drugs?
Yes. The FDA holds all drugs to strict safety and effectiveness guidelines. Generics use the same active ingredients as brand names. They are also proven to have the same quality and work the same way in the body. This means they also carry the same risks and benefits as the brand names.

Does every brand name drug have a generic equivalent?
No. Only about half of the brand name drugs on the market have a generic alternative. That's because many drugs are still protected by government patents. As patents expire, more brand name drugs will have generic counterparts.

Why do generic drugs look different than the brand names?
Generic drugs have the same active ingredients as brand names, but U.S. trademark laws prohibit generics from looking exactly like them. Colors, flavors and some inactive ingredients may be different, but the overall effect of the drug is the same. With this in mind you can save a lot of money by making the choice to buy generics and save!

Who should I talk to about my prescription?
Talk to your health care provider about your prescriptions. Ask if there are generic alternatives and if they are right for you. Tell your provider you want the most effective drug at the best price. Be sure to ask if there are any risks; side effects or reactions - if you change your medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to Contact Us with any questions you may have.


Most information taken from the following : US Food and Drug Administration CDER (center for drug evaluation & research) website