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Generic medicines home

Enquiries about
generic medicines

For more information
about generic medicines
email us an enquiry.

Ask our pharmacists

Expert medicines
information for the cost
of a local call.

Medicines Line
1300 888 763
Mon – Fri 9am – 6pm AEST

What is a brand name medicine? What is a brand name medicine?

Image of a man called Alan saying 'Same bloke. Different hat.' Also has the message that ‘Generic medicines are an equal choice. They contain the same active ingredient.’

The pharmaceutical company that first develops a medicine takes out a patent to ensure its exclusive right to produce and market it — this medicine is known as the original brand medicine. A patent generally lasts for 20 years.

After the patent for the original medicine expires, other manufacturers, or the company who made the original brand, can produce the medicine with the same active ingredient. These later medicines are called generic medicines, or 'off patent' medicines.

You may have heard some people refer to the original brand medicine as the ‘brand name’ medicine. However, in fact, most prescription medicines have a brand name — regardless if it is an original brand or a generic brand.

Also, prescription medicines with different brand names can in fact contain the same active ingredient. This may potentially cause confusion for some consumers.

How do you avoid confusing the brands of your medicines?

Check the active ingredient and strength on the label (see example below) to make sure you are taking the correct medicine, and to avoid accidentally taking a double dose. This may be particularly important if you, or someone you care for, is being treated in hospital, or you visit a doctor or pharmacist that you don’t usually go to. You may be prescribed or dispensed a different brand of medicine.
Image of a perscription medicine dispensing label identifying where the brand name and active ingredient name can be found.
Discuss your medicines with your doctor or pharmacist. It may also be helpful to keep a list of medicines you are taking.

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