Research shows that while 91% of people are aware of generic medicines many people are finding it difficult to understand the difference between brand medicines and their generic equivalent, as well as the benefits and risks of using a generic medicine.

National Prescribing Service Limited (NPS) and Council on the Ageing (COTA) are delivering free interactive information sessions during ACT Seniors Week 11-18 March. The sessions help seniors (anyone over 50) get to know their medicines so they can make informed choices. The sessions, run by senior peer educators, are friendly and interactive.

During the one-hour session participants learn how to identify medicine by the active ingredient or chemical name; what is required to make an informed decision when a choice of a generic or brand medicine is available; as well as how and where to find reliable information.

“There are now more generic medicines so you are asked to make a choice more often. This can be confusing due to the increasing amount of information available.

The sessions provide independent, accurate, balanced and evidence-based information about generic medicines.” said Hannah Baird, Manager, NPS Community Quality Use of Medicines.

“I highly recommend these sessions to seniors as they are more likely to be using multiple medicines. We encourage questions and discussion about choosing medicines and how to make decisions in partnership with your doctor and pharmacist,” said Paul Flint Executive Director, COTA (ACT).

Sessions start during Seniors Week and beyond, in ACT and the capital region. For session times, dates or to make a group booking call COTA ACT (02) 6282 3777.

ENDS

National Prescribing Service and COTA organisations work in partnership, combining quality use of medicines expertise with an understanding of the needs and interests of seniors in Australia. NPS is an independent, Australian organisation for Quality Use of Medicines, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing. COTA organisations have a pre-eminent role in representing, advocating and responding to the needs and interests of seniors throughout Australia.