What’s the difference?
When you go to the pharmacy, you might notice that there are two versions of many medications: brand-name and generic. You may wonder if they’re the same, or if one is better than the other. Here’s a simple explanation to help you understand.
SAME INGREDIENTS, SAME EFFECT
Generic medications have the same active ingredients as brand-name medication. That means they work the same way in your body and treat your condition just as well. In fact, most of the time, they also have the same inactive ingredients – like fillers and colourings – but even if they don’t, the differences are small and don’t affect how the medicine works.
APPROVED AND REGULATED
Generic drugs must meet strict standards set by health authorities. They also go through testing to make sure they are just as safe and effective as the brand-name version.
WHY ARE GENERIC MEDICATIONS CHEAPER?
Generic medicines cost less because their makers don’t have to spend money on the original research or marketing that brand-name companies do. That lower cost means more people can have the treatment they need.
WHAT THE PHARMACY GIVES YOU
When you receive a generic medication at the pharmacy, you can be confident it is the correct medication. This is regulated by law.
In short: Brand and generic medications are usually the same in every important way. Choosing generics saves money without sacrificing quality or safety – making healthcare more affordable for everyone.
NOTE:
This is general advice. For personal questions about your medication, please speak to your pharmacist.
This information is provided by the Pharmacist Association of Sint Maarten (PAS). PAS is dedicated to improving the quality of pharmaceutical care on the island.
All pharmacies on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten are proud members of PAS.
