- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- babies today articles
- babies today q&a
- toddlers today articles
- toddlers today q&a
- breastfeed.com articles
- breastfeed.com q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Alesia Hanson, RPh Registered Pharmacist | ||
 |
What is the difference between generic and name brand medications? If they can be so easily switched, are they really the same thing? Why the price difference?
In most cases, they are essentially the same thing. The active ingredient has to be the same, but the binders (that hold the tablet together), fillers, coatings and colors may differ. In order to be substitutable, the generic is tested against the brand and shown to have the same effect. Generics are rated by the FDA and those that can be substituted have an AB rating.
Generics and brands differ in price because if you choose the brand name, you are paying for the brand name. Also, generic companies did not have to do the research to develop that particular medication, so they do not have the expenses in research, development and advertising.
Related Expert Q&A
- One of my twin's head is a little misshapen. Should I be concerned? What should I do?
- What is positional molding?
- Can you give a child too much antibiotic? Can they overdose? Will giving them more make them get well quicker?
- What is the difference between generic and name brand medications?
- How do you know when you should take your child to the hospital?
More Answers by this Expert
- Are too many antibiotics, given too often, bad for my baby?
- What's the best way to give infants medicine? I'm having a hard time with my 3-month-old.
- At what age is it OK to give children aspirin?
- I am traveling soon with my child who is constantly on antibiotics. I was told that pharmacists can give me a powdered form so that I can mix it if needed while away. Is this true for all medications?
- My baby is very colicky. Is there anything over-the-counter that I can give him that may help?