Generic vs Branded Medicines: Are They the Same?
Generic medicines contain the same active ingredient in the same strength. Here is what to check before switching.
- Author
- Dr. Kavya Reddy, B.Pharm
- Published
- Reading time
- 1 min read
Same salt, same strength
A generic medicine contains the same active ingredient (salt), strength and dosage form as the branded version. In India, all manufacturers must meet the standards of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
Why is the price different?
Branded medicines carry marketing and research costs. Generics usually cost less because those costs are lower.
Before you switch
- Check the composition and strength match exactly.
- Check the dosage form (tablet vs extended-release tablet can behave differently).
- Ask your doctor or our pharmacist, especially for thyroid, epilepsy and blood-thinning medicines where small differences matter.
On every product page, look for Generic alternatives to compare prices.