Brand Vs. Budget Drugs

Let me say right upfront, that I know absolutely nothing about compounding drugs. I have never worked for a drug company and have no education regarding pharmaceuticals. What follows is purely a lay opinion about my use of generic and name-brand drugs.

The Strategy

Admittedly, my personal approach to selecting drugs is a bit schizoid. When it comes to emergency needs-the flu, a migraine, my child is sick-I'll reach for the name-brand drug every time. I want what I know to be the best without having to invest too much thought or effort. However, for ongoing or minor conditions-allergies, a simple headache, muscle aches-I choose the generic to save money. Here is my rationale.

With chronic conditions for which I frequently take medications, even though the generic may not be as effective, I reason that the cumulative effect should be sufficient. It's completely unscientific, but it works for my family. I check the dosage of the active ingredient in the name-brand vs. that in the generic. If the dosages are equivalent, the cheaper one wins; simple as that.

For emergencies, though, I value knowing that the medication is first-rate. I cannot have any doubt about its strength, variance between doses, or the reliability of its claims. In a pinch, I need to feel that what I'm choosing is the best available, period.

The Caveat

Now mind you, this cavalier attitude only applies to over-the-counter medications. I follow a whole other set of rules when it comes to prescription meds. If the doctor specifically writes 'name-brand only' into the prescription, then I follow his wishes. However, he must first explain to me why the name-brand drug is necessary, and I have to be convinced. In addition, I ask the pharmacist on duty his opinion prior to having the prescription filled. Sometimes, it involves a little trial-and-error. I'm fairly in-tune with my body and can recognize when something is different or not quite right. I have learned, for example, that while a generic of my nasal spray is acceptable, I absolutely must have the name-brand of my thyroid medication.

The End

While my primary consideration generally is price, there are times when I don't mind paying more for the comforting reputation--and sometime true superiority--of a name-brand product.