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.
