Prescription savings · updated 2026-06-28
Generic vs. brand-name drugs explained
How FDA-approved generics compare with brand-name medications and when to ask questions.
What generic approval means
FDA-approved generics have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, route of administration, and expected clinical effect as the brand-name reference product.
Inactive ingredients, shape, packaging, and manufacturer can differ.
Cost impact
Generics are usually the single biggest savings lever in prescription purchasing. If your prescription is written for a brand, ask whether generic substitution is allowed and appropriate.