Generic vs Brand-Name Drugs: Are They Really Different?
Many Vietnamese patients believe brand-name drugs are always better than generics. In reality, the FDA requires generic drugs to have the same active ingredient, dosage, formulation, and bioavailability (±20%) as the original drug. Generic prices are typically 30-80% cheaper.
The main differences are in excipients (additives), tablet shape, and color. In most cases, generics are equally effective. However, for some drugs with narrow therapeutic windows (like anti-epileptics), it is advisable to stick with the same manufacturer.