Generic Drugs:  Safe, Effective, Affordable  
Now is the time to choose generic drugs. Generic medications are widely accepted by doctors and pharmacists. Already, more than 40 percent of all medications dispensed annually are generic drugs and the availability of generic drugs is constantly expanding. In the last year, many of the best-selling, most widely prescribed brand-name drugs became available as generic medications for common medical conditions, including heartburn, allergies, depression and high blood pressure.

Why do generics cost less than brand-name drugs?
Drug manufacturers spend large sums of money on the research, development, marketing and advertising of brand-name drugs. These costs are built into the price you pay for the drug. Manufacturers of generic equivalents have much lower costs – and they pass the savings on to you.

Are generics and brand-name drugs the same?
A generic drug contains the same active ingredients in the same dosage forms and strengths as the brand-name drug. Since they have the same active ingredients, generic drugs can be used by patients of all ages to achieve the same medical effects of brand-name drugs.


Manufacturers do add small amounts of inactive ingredients for specific purposes, such as to add flavor and color. As a result, brand-name drugs and their generic equivalents often look different. Because these ingredients are inactive, they usually do not pose any risk for patients. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to see if a generic drug is right for you.

Why should you choose generics?
Every year, generic drugs filled at retail pharmacies save consumers billions of dollars. By choosing a generic medication, you:

  often save on your prescription co-payment
  get the same quality and effectiveness of a brand-name drug, and
  help keep medical care more affordable for everyone.


How do you know generics are safe?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves both brand-name and generic drugs before they are marketed in the United States. The FDA requires that generic equivalent drugs contain the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs. The FDA also requires that generic drugs be absorbed and used in the body in the same way as brand-name drugs. These requirements ensure that generic drugs will be as safe and effective as brand-name drugs.

You have a choice
When you get a prescription, find out whether a generic drug is available and whether it is appropriate for you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist:

  Is there a generic drug that is appropriate for my condition?
 
What is the potential for any side effects if I change medications?
  If you have more questions about generics, read the FDA’s Questions and Answers
    (http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/generics_q&a.htm).

Source:  Express Scripts, Inc.

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