Question

Alice is buying an over-the-counter cough syrup. She has a choice between a brand-name drug and a generic version of the medication. What would be a reasonable thing for her to do next?
A:Purchase the brand-name medication because it promises better results.
B:Purchase both medications and see which medication works best.
C:Check the active ingredients in the two medications to see if they differ.

Answer 1

C. Check the active ingredients in the two medications to see if they differ. As required by the FDA, generic drugs are required to have the same active ingredients. If the generic has the same active ingredients as the name brand then it is safe to assume it is an alternative to the name brand. Generics are often taken as a cheaper alternative to the brand-name drugs while still providing the same benefits as mandated by the FDA.