You don't need to be reminded how expensive prescription drugs are. However, there is an alternative that can help you reduce your drug costs significantly -generic drugs. Generic drugs are safe, effective and save consumers an estimated $8 to $10 billion dollars a year at retail pharmacies!

What are generic drugs?

Generic drugs are identical to or the "bioequivalent" of a brand-name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance and intended use.

Are generic drugs as safe as brand-name drugs?

Absolutely. In fact, an estimated 50% of generic drug production actually comes from brand-name companies. These companies frequently make copies of their own or other brand-name drugs, but sell them as generics.

Are generic drugs as effective as brand-name drugs?

Essentially, yes. Almost all people who take generic drugs experience positive results.

Why do generic drugs look different than their brand-name counterpart?

Trademark laws do not allow a generic drug to look exactly like the brand-name drug. However, while colors, flavors and other inactive ingredients may be different, the drug must duplicate the active ingredient.

Why are generic drugs less expensive?

New brand-name drugs are developed under a patent, giving the company the sole right to sell the drug during the patent period.

During this time, a drug company charges more for a brand-name drug to recover the costs of developing the drug, which also includes research, marketing and promotion.

When the patent expires, other manufacturers can begin to produce and sell generic versions of the brand-name drug.

Because these manufacturers don't have the same research and development costs, they can afford to sell their product at substantial discounts. Also, with more products in the market, there is more competition, which keeps the prices down.

Is there a generic drug for all brand-name drugs?

Unfortunately, no. Currently only half the drugs on the market are available in generic form. The other half are protected under patents, allowing only one company to produce them.

How can I get less expensive generic drugs?

Talk to your doctor. Ask for prescriptions for generic drugs whenever possible. For very competitive rates, order your prescribed generic drugs from Online Pharmacies Canada.

Online Pharmacies Canada, a Canadian Internet-based pharmacy intermediary (license #BC Q37),offers long term prescription drugs for low cost canadian online pharmacy prices. Online Pharmacies Canada facilitates the review of your Canadian prescription drugs and your general health. We forward all prescriptions to affiliated CIPA certified licensed Canada pharmacies to be filled. A professionally registered pharmacist fills all discount canadian prescriptions.

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