Ask the Pharmacist: Do generics have the same ingredients as brand name drugs?

Question:
Do generics really have the same active ingredients as their brand-name counterparts? Do you prefer generics?

Answer:

Yes - and yes. Here is why: Generics are required by law to have the same active ingredients, and the same amount of that active ingredient, as brand-name drugs. Generics are often much less expensive and offer a good way to save money without sacrificing effectiveness. Read more...

Please send your questions to AskThePharmacist@cvty.com

Kim DuBrueler, B.A., PharmD., RPh, is a Clinical Pharmacist within Coventry's pharmacy benefit management program, First Script. She joined Coventry in early 2011, bringing with her experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, as well as retail pharmacy. She is involved in keeping up on industry wide research and trends in the pharmacy sector, authoring pharmacy bulletins and client newsletters, white papers, presentations and educational webinars. Kim has a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Colgate University, a doctorate in pharmacy from Temple University, and is currently a member of the ACOEM Opioids Panel tasked with developing updated opioid utilization guidelines.