Question 1

Which common chronic medicines have good generic options available?

Accepted Answer

- Diabetes: Metformin, Glimepiride, Sitagliptin, Vildagliptin, Dapagliflozin, Insulins (bio-equivalentinsulins available) - Hypertension: Amlodipine, Telmisartan, Losartan, Ramipril, Atenolol, Metoprolol - Thyroid: Levothyroxine (T4), Liothyronine(T3) - Cholesterol: Atorvastatin, Rosuvastatin, Fenofibrate - Asthma / COPD: Salbutamol, Budesonide, Formoterol, Tiotropium - Acid reflux / GERD: Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, Rabeprazole, Esomeprazole - Mental Health: Escitalopram, Sertraline, Fluoxetine, Clonazepam, Alprazolam - Pain / anti-inflammatory: Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Paracetamol, Naproxen - Antibiotics: Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline - Vitamins & supplements: Vit D3, B12, Iron+ Folic Acid, Calcium, Zinc

Question 2

I've been taking a brand-name medicine for years now. Is it safe to switch over to a generic at this point?

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, yes-it is safe and clinically acceptable to switch over to a bio-equivalent generic for long-term medications. However, a small number of drugs require precise blood levels to be consistently maintained which may lead to your physician recommending a brand name if these are Levo-thyroxine (thyroid) related, Warfarin (blood thinner), anti-epileptic drugs or immunosuppressants used in transplants. Do not switch over your long-term medication until your physician gives their go-ahead. We will gladly furnish whatever medication they advise.

Question 3

Will my generic medicine be different from what I'm currently taking?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. As various manufacturers are making the medication, the generic version can have minor differences in terms of tablet shape, colour and packaging. As long as the active molecule is the same, this should not cause a problem. While the tablets themselves may look different and their packaging will be distinct, these discrepancies don't matter so long as the medication is composed of the same ingredients and possesses the same strength. The only name that truly counts is the salt name which appears on the packaging that confirms you are purchasing the correct drug.

Question 4

Can I get generic medications without a prescription?

Accepted Answer

Some medicines are available over the counter (OTC). This category comprises most basic vitamins and supplements, Paracetamol, antacids, topical antiseptic ointments, etc. However, the majority of chronic care drugs in India are Schedule H and necessitate a prescription, regardless of whether the medicine is a generic or a brand one. We insist on having a valid prescription, as is mandated by Indian pharmaceutical regulations.