Why are we offered a choice of medicine? Why are we offered a choice of medicine?

Because the same medicine may have different brand names

Many medicines with the same active ingredient are manufactured and sold under different brand names. They may have different names, look different and be a different price, but they work in the same way.

All medicines sold in Australia must meet the same strict standards of quality, safety and effectiveness.

 If you’re offered a choice of brand, each brand will always have the same active ingredient as the one on your prescription or the one you usually take, so each brand will have the same effect in the body. Remember, different pharmacies may sell different brand names of medicine.

Why is the active ingredient in your medicine so important?

Most medicines have two names — the active ingredient name and a brand name. The active ingredient is the chemical in the medicine that makes it work. The brand name is the name given to the medicine by its manufacturer.

You should check the active ingredient every time you get a medicine to avoid double dosing with another medicine that contains the same active ingredient.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure of the active ingredient or can’t find it on your medicine.

Find the active ingredient

The active ingredient name is shown on the medicine’s packaging. If it is a prescription medicine it is also on the label applied by the pharmacist. See example pharmacy dispensing label on the right.

 ‘Superstat  ’ is a fictitious medicine shown here for educational purposes only.

Will different brands work as well?

Yes they will. If a medicine has the same active ingredient and strength as another brand, then it will have the same potential health benefits and side effects.

If you have a chronic condition, or have been taking the same medicine for a long time, your doctor may advise that you stick to your usual brand. In which case, they will tick the ‘Brand substitution not permitted’ box on your prescription.

Also, it’s best not to keep switching brands, especially if you’re taking several different medicines. This can result in confusion about which medicine to take and when.

Why do medicines look different if they work the same?

Due to trademark considerations, the medicine packaging may look different.

The medicine might also be a different shape, size, colour, or taste different. This is because different ‘inactive’ ingredients — such as lactose, gluten, sugar, preservatives and dyes — have been used in the manufacturing process.

For most people these differences don’t matter.

However, if you have particular allergies or intolerances (or choose to avoid certain substances for cultural or medical reasons) you should check the inactive ingredients included in the brand you choose.