Generic medicines are an equal choice campaign

The ‘Generic medicines are an equal choice campaign’, being run by the National Prescribing Service Ltd (NPS), aims to provide consumers with the evidence based information they need to make more informed choices about their medicine use.

“Generic medicines are an equal choice. They contain the same active ingredient as original brand medicines and meet the same government standards,” NPS chief executive officer, Lynn Weekes, said.

The active ingredient in a medicine is what makes the medicine work; this is known as the therapeutic effect. Manufacturers must demonstrate their generic brand works in the same way in the body (ie has the same therapeutic effect), for it to be listed as a substitute on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) to the original brand medicine.

“All medicines that are marketed in Australia must meet the Therapeutic Good Administration (TGA) standards. The TGA requires generic medicines to be stringently assessed to ensure they contain the same active ingredient as the original brand medicines and demonstrate bioequivalence,” Dr Weekes said.

The reason generic medicines are sometimes a different size, shape or colour to the original brand medicine is because the inactive ingredients such as fillers or coatings do not have to be the same.

“If you are considering switching to a generic medicine, speak with your GP or pharmacist first. They will know if there is a generic option available and whether it’s suitable for you. Your GP or pharmacist will also be able to point out the active ingredient and answer any questions you may have. As some medicines have several generic brands, it is recommended that if you decide to switch to a generic brand you continue with that brand to avoid confusion,” Dr Weekes concluded.

As generic medicines do not carry brand premiums (a small cost some originator brands charge on top of the price the patient pays), there may be cost savings associated with choosing a generic medicine; between $1-$4 per item.

The main benefits to consumers will be the future viability of the PBS. By helping to reduce the cost to the government, Australians are playing a part in ensuring the PBS is sustainable, giving us all access to new and existing necessary medicines at affordable prices.

For more information about generic medicines visit www.nps.org.au/genericmedicines or phone Medicines Line on 1300 888 763.