Generic medications are often less expensive than brand-name medications, but many patients wonder if they work the same way.
A generic drug contains the same active ingredient as the brand-name version. It must meet FDA standards for strength, dosage form, route of administration, quality, and performance.
The biggest difference is usually the name, appearance, inactive ingredients, and cost. A generic tablet may be a different color, shape, or size than the brand-name version, but the active medication is intended to work the same way.
Generic drugs can cost less because the manufacturer usually does not have to repeat the same expensive research and development process used for the original brand-name drug.
Some patients may notice differences when switching manufacturers, especially with medications that require very precise dosing. If you feel different after a change, talk with your pharmacist or doctor.
Bottom line: FDA-approved generics are designed to work the same as brand-name medications and often save patients money. Ask your pharmacist if you have concerns about a change in manufacturer.
