SAME QUALITY as brand-name drugs
All drugs (brand-name and generic) are reviewed and authorized for sale by Health Canada before they are available for prescription. A generic drug is designed to work the same way in the body as the original brand-name drug.
SAME ACTIVE INGREDIENTS as brand-name drugs
Generic drugs have the same active ingredient (the chemical that makes the drug work) and that means they work the same way in the body as the brandname drug. Generic drugs must also have the same amount of active ingredient in the prescription. The non-medicinal ingredients, such as fillers and preservatives, may be different from brand-name products, but they are also regulated and subject to the same review process.
SAME MANUFACTURING STANDARDS as brand-name drugs
To receive a license to manufacture and sell drugs in Canada, both brand name companies and generic drug companies must follow the same good manufacturing practices (GMP) guidelines, which ensure consistent production and quality standards.
SAME SAFETY & EFFICACY as brand-name drugs
When a generic prescription drug has been reviewed and authorized for sale by Health Canada, it means the medicine is as safe and effective as the original brand-name drug and works the same way in the body.
1.4 MILLION SOLD EVERY DAY
In Canada 700 million prescriptions were filled in. And 72-percent of all prescriptions were dispensed with generic medicines. That means that on
average, everyday 1.4 MILLION* prescriptions were filled using cost-saving generic medicine.
WHY SHOULD I CARE ABOUT PRICE?
I’m covered by my drug plan
Your drug plan is a benefit to keep you and your family healthy. The price of generic medicine makes patient care affordable and drug benefit plans sustainable. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if there is a generic equivalent available for your prescription needs. For more information on generic medicine versus brand-name drugs contact CADTH. CADTH is an independent, not-for-profit organization responsible for providing objective evidence to help make informed decisions about prescription medicines.
CADTH Evidence www.cadth.ca
