Because everybody’s reaction is different, you really ... have to be your own regulator, and your own clinical trial when it comes to medications that you’re taking. Some people are very sensitive to the minor differences between generics and brand names, and you should monitor your symptoms ... .
If you’re stabilized on a drug, try to stay on that drug, whether it’s a generic or a brand name; don’t switch back and forth unless you absolutely can’t help it
And if you’re stabilized on a generic, try to make sure that you’re getting the same generic each time. A lot of pharmacies will ... treat generic versions of medications as interchangeable, and they’re all trying to get the best deal they can from the cheapest manufacturer at the best time.
Try to find out exactly who the manufacturer is of the generic you’re taking and ask the pharmacist to give you that one each time.
Melinda Beck
The Wall Street Journal
Health Journal columnist
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