eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Save Money with Generic Prescriptions

Member
By jbolger
User-Submitted Article
(0 Ratings)

Here is an overview of generic drugs, and how choosing generics might help you save how you save money.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Understand why certain drugs are generic. Generic does not mean less good. Generic drugs have the same active ingredients as more expensive name-brand drugs. They cost less because the makers of generic drugs don’t have to research new drugs or pay for advertising to introduce a new product. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ensures that generic drugs are equivalent to brand name drugs. The FDA ensures that generics contain the same active ingredients that work the same way in the body to deliver their beneficial effects.

  2. Step 2

    Understand how generics get on the market. Generic drugs are tested to make sure their performance and ingredients meet the FDA’s standards for equivalency, but the generic drug does not have to be tested by the clinical trial process applied to the original drug. In order to be considered a generic version, the compound must behave chemically just like the brand name. It must be labeled with the same information as the original drug, including cautions and side effects.

  3. Step 3

    Talk to your doctor. You may need to ask your physician if your prescription can be written to allow filling with a generic equivalent. The pharmacist can supply a generic drug only if the doctor indicates that option. There may be reasons why a generic drug may not be suitable for you. Always ask your physician if a generic equivalent is available, and if it would be appropriate for you.

  4. Step 4

    Some people find that a generic drug does not work as well as the name brand equivalent. There may be physical or psychological reasons for this lack of effectiveness. Remember, If a generic drug does not work as well for you, you can ask your doctor for the name-brand drug. Remember that your health insurance may not cover the added cost.

Tips & Warnings
  • This article is presented for informational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of a healthcare professional.

Comments  

donlarry said

Flag This Comment

on 8/5/2009 here you can buy cheap drugs online. Low price, good support, and security of all customers at this site --------> www.worldof.pillsfm.com

Post a Comment

Post a Comment
  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health