The Clinical Corner – Generic vs. Brand Name Medications

March 7, 2023


Hello everyone!

I hope you’ve been enjoying the warmer weather and sunnier days. In this edition of The Clinical Corner, we’ll be tackling a question asked by healthcare providers and family members alike:

“Is there a difference between generic and brand name medications?”

We hear this question often – and as caregivers, it’s a question we might often ask ourselves. Is generic the way to go? Should we pay the extra money to get the brand name? To answer this question, I sat down with our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. McNamara, for more insight as to which option might work best for you. Here’s what he had to say:

“Most of us have heard the terms “generic” and “brand name” mediations. For example – Tylenol is the brand name for acetaminophen, a generic medication. As I gained experience as a physician, I learned and counseled my patients to always take generics when available due to significant cost differences with equivalent therapeutic effect.

First – always remember that your pharmacist is an invaluable member of your care team. They can help you understand which medications you should buy over the counter. They can also help you ask at the point of sale if there is a generic alternative to the medication your provider prescribed.

The time to ask questions about your medications is when your provider recommends a medication for you. Most providers will give you a visit summary with information of the medication they are recommending.”

***In this article, you’ll find that the FDA reports that medication ingredients are the same in generic as they are in name brand.

 It typically takes upwards of 15 years from the time a research study begins to when the drug is approved. This is why drug manufacturers typically impose high costs – to make the money back on the expenses accrued over the course of their research.

When looking at medication options, always remember that all medications should be taken as directed by your provider. And just as Dr. McNamara noted, when in doubt, your pharmacist and provider will always be your greatest asset! Also – don’t forget that our Assisted Living care team is here to help you or your loved one with medication assistance.

Have a great month,

-Rhonda Dempsey, Chief Nursing Officer

Share this post:

Related Blog Posts

  • How We Celebrate – Dancing Through The Decades Theme Week

    March 14, 2023

    Theme Weeks are back! From February 26th – March 4th, we kicked off our 2023 Theme Year the only way we knew how – by Dancing Through the Decades! From February 26th – March 4th, over 130 Trilogy communities participated in a seven-day long Sock Hop celebration. All across the Midwest, residents and staff alike […]

    Read Article
  • We’ve Added a Fifth State!

    March 8, 2023

    The word is out! In continuing our mission of being the Best Healthcare Company in the Midwest, we’re expanding into our fifth state with the additions of Sun Prairie Senior Living andValley Senior Living. Our first expansion since stepping into Battle Creek, Michigan in 2006, we’re proud to now provide exceptional services to the seniors […]

    Read Article
  • The Clinical Corner – The Benefits of Socialization

    February 13, 2023

    Welcome to the February Clinical Corner, everyone! It’s that time of year again to give the ones we love a special Valentine – letting them know that they’re appreciated and seen. Socialization is a huge part of Valentine’s – but we could all use some love and care 365 days out of the year. Studies […]

    Read Article

web design by design web