The Truth About Generic Medicines
By Dr. Nikita Toshi +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Avinav Gupta
Last updated: Jul 24, 2026 Published on: Aug 22, 2022
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By Dr. Nikita Toshi +2 more
Table of Contents
A generic medicine is a substitute for a non-generic medicine; both are the same in composition, excluding the inactive ingredients. Generic medicines can only be produced after the patent of the non-generic medicine has expired and manufacturers get approval from the government authorities in India to make bioequivalent medicines by maintaining safety and quality standards. People have different opinions about generic medicines, and listed below are some myths and facts that will help you make an informed and wise choice1.
Fact: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation mandates that all medicines manufactured must meet a specific quality and safety standard to be allowed for sale in the market. There are strict terms for approving the request for manufacturing generic medicines, and the authorities ensure that all medicines are safe and effective for the public. Generic medicines are bioequivalent to non-generic medicines and are both made with the same active ingredients2.
Fact: Generic and non-generic medicines use the same active ingredients, and their strength is no different. You will receive the same benefits from generic medicines as from non-generic medicines, and they will also take equal time to produce results3.
Fact: Generic medicines, as well as non-generic medicines, are monitored by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation in India and checked for harmful medicine reactions. Generic medicines do not cause any exclusive or added side effects3,4.
Fact: The active ingredient and its strength are the same in both medicines, and the dosage form is the same as the original product. Therefore, generic medicines are made to be equally effective as non-generics4,5.
Fact: Generic medicines are not sold loose; they are packed properly, and due care is taken in storing and distributing these medicines4.
Fact: A generic medicine is pharmaceutically and therapeutically the same as non-generic medicines. Generic medicines cost less, but their quality is not compromised. Makers of generic medicines do not have to spend on research, testing, marketing and advertising, which is why they can be sold at low prices1,3.
Fact: An expiration date of medicine is the last date at which the manufacturer can still guarantee the full safety, purity and effectiveness of the medication. Once the patent of a non-generic medicine expires, it means it can now be manufactured as a generic medicine, and if it receives the approval of the Drugs Control Advisory Board, after meeting all the safety and quality standards, then it can be sold as a generic medicine at a low cost. This does not mean the medicine is expired or ineffective5,6.
Fact: Generic medicines are widely available, and many doctors recommend them to patients. Doctors and pharmacists are requested to promote non-generic medicines, which is why they recommend them. Doctors may genuinely feel a generic medicine is not appropriate for patients. Otherwise, generic medicine is often mentioned in the prescription.
Generic medicines may come in a different colour, shape, size or packaging compared to their branded equivalents. This can sometimes cause confusion among patients who expect the medicine to look the same as the one they have used before7.
These differences in appearance occur for specific reasons. The colour, shape and design of a branded medicine may be protected by trademark, which means other manufacturers cannot replicate the exact appearance. Manufacturers of generic medicines may also use different inactive ingredients, coatings or dyes during their production process.
It is important to understand that these differences in appearance do not necessarily affect how the medicine works in the body. The active ingredient, which is the component responsible for the therapeutic effect, remains the same. If you are uncertain about a medicine that looks different from what you have previously used, it is advisable to speak with a licensed pharmacist or registered medical practitioner before making any changes.
Before a generic medicine can be approved and sold in the market, it must go through a regulatory process to confirm that it is equivalent to the reference branded medicine. This process is known as bioequivalence testing.
Bioequivalence testing assesses whether the generic medicine delivers the active ingredient into the body at a comparable rate and to a comparable extent as the original medicine. The generic medicine must contain the same active ingredient, the same dosage strength and the same dosage form, such as a tablet, capsule or liquid.
In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is responsible for reviewing and approving generic medicines. A generic medicine can only be marketed after receiving the necessary regulatory approval and meeting applicable quality, safety and efficacy standards. Patients can be assured that a generic medicine available through a licensed pharmacy has undergone this process before reaching them8.
In most situations, patients who use a generic medicine experience a similar therapeutic effect compared to the branded version. This is because both products are required to contain the same active ingredient in the same dosage strength and dosage form.
However, there is a specific group of medicines known as narrow therapeutic index medicines. In these medicines, small variations in the amount of drug absorbed by the body may have clinical significance. Certain medicines used for conditions such as thyroid disorders or seizure management may fall into this category. For these medicines, a registered medical practitioner may advise patients to remain consistent with one specific product.
This does not mean that generic medicines in these categories are unsuitable. It means that any change between products should only happen after consulting a registered medical practitioner. Patients should not make decisions about switching or stopping medicines on their own.
Also Read: How to Find Generic Medicine: A Complete Guide to Finding Generic Drugs Safely
A common concern among some patients is that a generic medicine may not work as well as the branded version they are familiar with. This perception is often influenced by factors that are unrelated to the medicine’s actual composition or regulatory approval9.
Differences in appearance can play a role. When a medicine looks different in colour, shape or packaging, some patients may feel uncertain about whether it is the same medicine. Familiarity with a particular brand name can also shape expectations about how a medicine should look and feel.
Individual variation in treatment response is another factor to consider. Different patients may respond differently to any medicine, whether branded or generic. This is influenced by age, body weight, other medicines being taken and the nature of the health condition, rather than whether the medicine is generic or branded. Taking a medicine correctly, at the right time and in the right dose, also plays an important role in how well it works.
If a medicine appears to be less effective than expected, or causes any unexpected symptoms, patients should consult a registered medical practitioner. Stopping or changing a medicine without medical advice is not recommended.
Also Read: Benefits Of Generic Medicines You Must Know
We have discussed some common misconceptions about generic medicines in this article. Generic medicines help improve access to affordable treatment options by increasing competition in the medicine market. They play an important role in improving access to medicines, particularly in lower-income settings, while meeting applicable regulatory standards for quality, safety, and efficacy
Also Read: Understanding Generic Alternates: What They Are and How They Work
Generic medicines can be trusted when they are approved by the country’s drug regulatory authority and manufactured under quality standards. They contain the same active ingredients, strength, dosage form and route of administration as the reference medicine and are approved to provide the same therapeutic effect. Choosing generic medicines can reduce treatment costs while providing safe and effective treatment option.
Many people avoid generic medicines because they believe they are less effective or of lower quality than branded medicines. Lack of awareness, strong brand preference, and misconceptions about safety also influence their choice. In reality, approved generic medicines are evaluated to meet applicable quality, safety and efficacy standards.
No, generic medicines do not usually take longer to work than branded medicines. They contain the same active ingredient and are designed to provide the same therapeutic effect. If approved by regulatory authorities, they are expected to work just as safely and effectively as their branded counterparts
Generic medicines are cheaper because their manufacturers do not spend on expensive research, drug discovery, or large-scale marketing like branded companies. They are produced after the original drug’s patent expires, reducing development costs. This allows companies to sell them at lower prices while maintaining the same quality and effectiveness.
Yes, it is possible to be allergic to a generic medicine. Allergic reactions may occur due to the active ingredient or inactive ingredients (such as fillers or dyes), which may differ from the branded version.. If any allergic symptoms appear, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Yes, you can switch from a branded medicine to a generic medicine if recommended by your registered medical practitioner. y Both contain the same active ingredient and are expected to work in the same way. However, it is important to ensure the generic version is properly approved and suitable for your condition. Always consult a healthcare professional before making the switch.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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