Saving money by using generic instead of branded medicines

When it comes to buying medication, many people opt for the branded version of the drug without considering the alternative of a generic version. However, generic medicines are often significantly cheaper than their branded counterparts, and they can work just as well. In this article, we'll explore what generic medicines are and the differences between branded and generic versions of some common medicines.

 

What does generic mean?

A generic medicine is a drug that contains the same active ingredient(s) as a branded medicine. These active ingredients are the chemicals that make the drug work. For example, Nurofen is a common pain reliever. A generic version of Nurofen, i.e. ibuprofen, would contain the same active ingredient, but it might have a different name and come in a different colour or shape.

 

What are the differences between branded and generic medicines?

The main difference between branded and generic medicines is the price. Branded medicines are often more expensive than generic medicines because the pharmaceutical companies that produce them invest a lot of money in research and development, as well as marketing and advertising.

However, it’s required that generic medicines have the same quality, strength, and purity as their branded counterparts. This means that generic medicines are just as safe and effective as their branded counterparts.

 

Here are some examples of common medicines and the differences between their branded and generic versions:

 

Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen)

Branded versions: Tylenol, Panadol, Calpol

Generic version: paracetamol

Uses: pain relief, reducing fever

 

Ibuprofen

Branded versions: Advil, Motrin, Nurofen

Generic version: ibuprofen

Uses: pain relief, reducing inflammation, reducing fever

 

Cetirizine

Branded versions: Zyrtec, Reactine

Generic version: cetirizine

Uses: treating allergies, such as hay fever or hives

 

Loratadine

Branded versions: Claritin, Alavert

Generic version: loratadine

Uses: treating allergies, such as hay fever or hives

 

Chlorphenamine (also known as chlorpheniramine)

Branded versions: Piriton, Chlor-Trimeton

Generic version: chlorphenamine

Uses: treating allergies, such as hay fever or hives, and for relief of itching caused by insect bites

 

Diphenhydramine

Branded versions: Benadryl

Generic version: diphenhydramine

Uses: treating allergies, such as hay fever or hives, and for relief of itching caused by insect bites

 

Promethazine

Branded versions: Phenergan

Generic version: promethazine

Uses: treating allergies, preventing nausea and vomiting, and as a sedative

 

Fluconazole

Branded versions: Diflucan

Generic version: fluconazole

Uses: treating fungal infections, such as thrush or ringworm

 

In conclusion, generic medicines are a safe and cost-effective alternative to their branded counterparts. While there may be some differences in inactive ingredients, the active ingredients are the same, meaning that generic medicines can be just as effective. It's always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, whether it's branded or generic.

AllergiesGenericHay fever