What to ask the experts

What to ask your doctor

• Which of my medication is available in generic form?
• Are generics the best choice for my condition?
• Are there any risks if I change from my current branded drug to a generic equivalent?

What to ask your pharmacist

• Are generics available for any of my medications?
• How much will I save if I switch to a generic? By using a generic your medical aid funds may last much longer.
• Are there any concerns about side effects with a generic? Remember your pharmacist is a medication specialist and would be able to supply you with an informed answer.

References:

• United States Food and Drug Administration. Generic drugs: what you need to know. [online] 2002 [cited 2007 Jul 09]. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2002/502_generic.html
• United States Food and Drug Administration. Savings from generic drugs purchased at retail pharmacies. [online] 2004 [cited 2007 Jul 09]. Available at http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/savingsfromgenericdrugs.htm
• United States Food and Drug Adminstration: Office of Generic Drugs. [online] 2007 [cited 2007 Jul 09]. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/cder/ogd/
• SA Medicines Control Council. Guidelines on generic substitution. Government Gazette 2003;25145:183-5.