The same medicine, for less: what a generic actually is

Most medicines in India are sold under a brand name. The brand is not the medicine — the medicine is the molecule inside it, and the same molecule is usually sold by a dozen companies at a dozen prices.

What "generic" means

A generic is the same active ingredient, at the same strength, in the same form. Paracetamol 500 mg is paracetamol 500 mg whether the box says Crocin, Dolo or nothing at all.

Why the price differs

Brands carry marketing, distribution and habit. The molecule costs what it costs. At a Jan Aushadhi store the same composition is often a fraction of the branded price, because those stores sell under the generic name.

What to ask

Ask your chemist for the medicine by its ingredient name rather than the brand on your prescription. If your prescription says a brand, the ingredient is printed on the box in smaller type.

One caution

Same composition is not the same as interchangeable in every case. Modified-release forms, combination products and a few narrow-margin drugs are worth confirming with your doctor before switching. When in doubt, ask — the saving is not worth a guess.