Using generic drugs

Yes, says the US Food and Drug Administration. Generics are chemically identical to their brand-name counterparts, and are equally safe and effective.

Like brand-name drugs, prescription generics must also be approved by the FDA.

Brand-name drugs are more expensive because the manufacturers must pay hefty fees for creating and patenting new drugs, says the FDA. A new drug is protected by patent for a number of years, but once that patent expires, other drug makers are able to produce the bioequivalent generic at a lower cost.

If you're currently taking a brand-name prescription drug, ask your doctor or pharmacist about whether there's a generic alternative. – (HealthDayNews)

July 2006