Generic vs. Brand Name Drugs

What is a generic drug? Generic drugs are “copies” of brand-name drugs that have exactly the same quality, active ingredients, intended use, effects, safety, and strength as brand-names.
 
Why are generic drugs less expensive? Companies that develop brand-name drugs pay for research and development. Once a brand-name drug is ready, a patent is granted allowing the company an exclusive right to sell the drug. Introducing the brand-name drug to the medical community and the general public is expensive.
 
Once the patent expires, other companies can sell a generic copy without the research, development or marketing costs—those cost savings are passed on to you.

Asking for generics could save you money! To find out how much prescription drugs cost you based on your medical plan, click here.