Farmington Drugs

What Is the Difference Between Generic and Brand Name Medications?

What Is the Difference Between Generic and Brand Name Medications?

When you pick up a prescription at Farmington Drugs, you may be asked:
"Would you like the generic or brand name medication?"

If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between generic and brand name medications, you’re not alone. Many patients ask if one is better, safer, or more effective than the other.

In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about generic and brand name medications, so you can feel confident about your choice.

What Are Brand Name Medications?

Developed by Pharmaceutical Companies

Brand name medications are the original drugs developed and tested by pharmaceutical companies. These companies spend years researching, testing, and getting approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Example of Brand Name Medication

For example:

  • Brand Name: Tylenol

  • Generic Name: Acetaminophen

When a new drug is developed, the company that created it has a patent, meaning they are the only ones allowed to sell it for a certain number of years.

What Are Generic Medications?

Same Active Ingredients

Once the patent for a brand name medication expires, other companies are allowed to produce and sell a generic version. Generic medications must have the same active ingredients, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the brand name drug.

This means:

  • If you take a generic drug, you are getting the same medicine that works in the same way as the brand name.

FDA Approved for Safety and Effectiveness

All generic medications must meet strict standards set by the FDA for:

  • Quality

  • Strength

  • Purity

  • Safety

  • Effectiveness

Generics go through testing to prove they work just like the brand name version.

Key Differences Between Generic and Brand Name Medications

1. Cost

Generics are often much cheaper than brand name medications. This is because:

  • Generic companies didn’t pay for the original drug research and marketing.

  • More competition leads to lower prices.

Example:

  • Brand Name: $100

  • Generic: $10 - $30

This is one of the biggest reasons why pharmacists at Farmington Drugs often recommend generic options.

2. Appearance

Generic medications may look different from brand name medications. The color, shape, or size might change because:

  • Trademark laws prevent generic drugs from looking exactly like the brand name.

But remember, these changes are only in appearance — not in how the medication works.

3. Inactive Ingredients

Generic medications may have different inactive ingredients like:

  • Fillers

  • Binders

  • Coloring agents

These ingredients usually do not affect how the medication works. However, if you have allergies or sensitivities, talk to your pharmacist.

Are Generic Medications Safe?

Absolutely – FDA Approved

Both brand name and generic medications must meet the same FDA safety standards. Generic drugs are required to deliver the same amount of medicine into your bloodstream in the same amount of time as brand name drugs.

Trusted by Pharmacists

At Farmington Drugs, we trust and recommend generic medications every day because they offer:

  • Proven effectiveness

  • Safety

  • Big savings for patients

When Might You Choose a Brand Name Medication?

There are some situations where a brand name may be recommended, such as:

  • If you’ve had a reaction to a generic’s inactive ingredients

  • Certain complex medications (like thyroid or seizure drugs) where even small differences might matter

  • If your doctor specifically requests the brand name

Always follow your doctor or pharmacist’s advice.

What Should You Do If You’re Not Sure?

Ask Your Pharmacist at Farmington Drugs

We’re always happy to answer questions like:

  • Is there a generic option available for my medication?

  • Will switching to generic save me money?

  • Are there any side effects I should watch for?

Your health and comfort matter most.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to generic and brand name medications, both are safe, effective, and approved by the FDA. For many patients, generics offer the same results at a lower cost.

Still unsure? Visit Farmington Drugs and speak with one of our pharmacists. We’ll help you understand your options and choose what’s best for your health and your budget.