Medications

Generic or brand-name drugs?

Print This Page
generic drugs brand name drugs
Image: Thinkstock

Ask the doctor

Almost always, the generics prove identical. But there have been a few examples in which the generic drug was not equivalent-at least until a problem in the manufacturing process was corrected. So, I can't tell you absolutely that any generic you try will always work just as well as the brand-name version—just that it almost always will. Of course, any medicine will only work if you take it. And many studies have found that people are less likely to take brand-name drugs than the generic equivalents. Presumably, this is because the brand-name drugs cost more. So some doctors argue that generic drugs actually are more likely to produce positive health effects than brand-name drugs. A committee of experts convened by the American College of Physicians has recently reviewed all of the evidence on this question, and their conclusions are like mine.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online Plus (HHO+) to unlock expert-backed health insights, personalized tools, and exclusive resources to feel your best every day.

Here’s what you get with your HHO+ membership:

  • Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
  • 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
  • Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
  • In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
  • Interactive features like videos and quizzes
  • Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
Learn more about the benefits of features of HHO+ »

I’d like to subscribe to HHO+ for $4.99/month to access expert-backed content to help make smart, informed decisions about my well-being.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Print This Page

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

10 Ways to Fight Chronic Inflammation is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive health information from Harvard Medical School.

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle with ways to keep inflammation under control … lessen digestion problems … learn simple exercises to improve your balance…understand your options for cataract treatment … all delivered to your email box FREE.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.