FAQ

Now is the right time to choose generic drugs Generic medications are widely accepted by physicians, pharmacists and health plan providers. Already, more than 40% of all medications dispensed annually are generic drugs. And the availability of generic drugs is constantly expanding.

By 2006, many of the best-selling, most widely prescribed brand-name drugs will become available as generic medications for common medical conditions, including:

• Heartburn

• Allergies

• Depression

• High blood pressure

Greater availability of generic alternatives over the next few years will bring the potential of new value for you – quality, safety and effectiveness at substantially lower prices.

Questions and Answers About Generic and Brand-Name Drugs

1. Why do generics cost less than brand-name drugs?

Research and Advertising
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.

2. Are generics and brand-name drugs the same?

Same Active Ingredients, Different Package
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 provided by 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 determine if there is an appropriate generic drug for you.

3. Why should you choose generics?

Cost Effective
Consumers who choose generic drugs and fill their prescriptions at retail pharmacies realize annual savings in the billions.

By choosing a generic medication, you:

Often save on you prescription copayment
Get the same quality and effectiveness as that of a brand-name drug
Help keep medical care more affordable for everyone

4. How do you know generics are safe?

FDA Approval
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. Furthermore, the FDA 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.