Are generic drugs the same as branded drugs?

Yep, they offer the same efficacy — often at a lower price. Here's why: Generic drugs must meet the same FDA standards as the brand name drug it's replacing.

This means that the following must be the same:

• Active ingredient
• Conditions of use
• Dosage
• Route of administration
• Strength

Certain differences are allowed, such as shape, scoring, storage requirement, and minor labeling or packaging differences. But none of these impact the efficacy.