BUY GENERIC AND SAVE

Prescription drugs can be a costly medical expense, especially for older people and those who are chronically ill. Save yourself some money! By using a substitute (generic brand) when you become sick or even to ward off illness.

An unofficial check by the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) to confirm the theory that generic brands are cheaper, found that a 60 day supply of multivitamins from some established brand cost more than $2000, where as a 60 day supply of generic multivitamins is likely to cost you under $700.

We realise that you may still have reservations and questions and have provided answers to some of the more common question we receive.

What’s the difference between a generic and brand-name drug?
Not much. The products have the same active ingredients, strength, and dosage form (pill, liquid, or injection) and the same medical effect(s).

Do all drugs have generic equivalents?
No. Some drugs are protected by patents and are supplied by only one company. However, when the patent expires, other manufacturers can produce its generic version. Most drugs on the market, do however, have generic equivalents.

How can I get generic drugs?
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Explain that you want the most effective drug at the best price. Ask your doctor to write prescriptions for generic drugs when possible. Remember that the law dictates that the dispensary (place from which drug is being given to patients in the pharmacy) displays a sign to say generic drugs are available.

Are there exceptions?
Yes. If your doctor writes on the prescription form that a specific brand-name drug is required, your pharmacist must fill the prescription as written. That is, a generic drug cannot be substituted. For example, where the bio-availability (how the drug is released in the body throughout the day) differs between the brand name and generic drugs, the doctor might stipulate the brand-name drugs.

Do not assume this is the case when your doctor prescribes a brand; instead ask him/her about their reason for doing so.

Tell us what issues you want addressed

Send e-mail to: cacjam@infochan.com or star@gleaner.com

Write to us at: 1B Holborn Road, Kingston 10 Or call us at: 926-1650-2 or toll free 1-888-991-4470, ask for our Information Desk