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Generic medicines campaignGeneric medicines campaign

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In July and October 2008, the National Prescribing Service ran a series of television advertisements designed to inform people about generic medicines. The advertisements highlighted the facts about generic medicines and encouraged people to learn more about them.

Same active ingredient

Generic medicines contain the same active ingredient as the original brand medicine. The active ingredient of a medicine is the chemical that makes the medicine work as intended.

Manufacturers of generic medicines must prove that the generic version of a medicine has the same intended effect on the body as the original brand medicine for it to be placed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

Generic medicines must be manufactured using the same stringent Australian Government standards as the original brand medicine.

Generic medicines may look different

Generic medicines may be a different size, shape or colour from the original brand medicine, because the inactive ingredients, the fillers, coatings and so on, may be different from those in the original brand medicine. Generic medicines also usually have different packaging from the original brand medicine.

Generic medicine poster with man holding a generic medicine. Caption reads 'Same bloke. Different hat'.

Using generic medicines

If you are considering changing to a generic medicine, talk to your GP or pharmacist first. They will know if there is a generic version available and whether it is suitable for you.

Some medicines have several generic brands. If you decide to switch to a generic brand, it may be best to stick with that brand to avoid confusion and the possibility of taking two versions of the same medicine at the same time.

Find out the name of the active ingredient of your medicine, and record it on your medicines list. Keep the list in your wallet or handbag, so you have it with you when you need it. If you don’t know the name of the active ingredient, ask your pharmacist to show you how to find it on the medicine’s label.

Information about your medicines

For more information about your medicines and their active ingredients:

Information about generic medicines

For information about generic medicines:


MedicinesTalk is a free quarterly newsletter for consumers written by consumers about using medicines wisely. Subscribe to the hard copy version using our online ordering system, or write to MedicinesTalk, National Prescribing Service Limited, PO Box 1147, Strawberry Hills, NSW 2012.

Date published: 2009-01-30 00:00:00

Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries when providing medical advice or treatment. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.

References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.