Go Generic
13/06/2006

At the Health Centre Pharmacy

The “Go Generic” campaign promotes the prescribing of generic or non-branded medicines to patients where appropriate.   Generic medicines are versions of a branded medicine made by other manufacturers, for example: whilst Panadol® is  the brand name of a commonly used medicine, its generic name is Paracetamol. Generic medicines usually cost a lot less than their branded equivalent, but are in no way inferior.

Generic prescribing is low in Northern Ireland compared to the rest of the UK.    This year, over £83 million pounds will be spent on medicines prescribed in the community across the Northern Board area.   Using non-branded medicines, where appropriate, can help to deliver savings in drug costs which can then be re-invested in other areas such as essential hospital operations.

Glynis McMurtry, Senior Prescribing Adviser, Family Practitioner Unit, Northern Board said:

“All generic medicines have to undergo the same stringent safety and quality requirements demanded of the original branded product. In fact, some of the manufacturers who make generics are owned by larger companies who make branded medicines.  Patients can be assured that they will be taking the same quality medicine with the same beneficial effect on their medical treatment.”

Local pharmacist, Wilbert Kennedy, said:

“Generic medicines may differ from their equivalent brand in colour or size, but patients should be reassured that there is no change to their therapy, as they are really receiving the same medicine, with different packaging. Patients should feel free to discuss any changes to their medication with their GP or with their local pharmacist when they are having their prescription dispensed.”

Pictured promoting generic prescribing are Wilbert Kennedy, Pharmacist at Dunclug Pharmacy and Margretta McCully, Prescribing Support Assistant, Northern Board.