Ontario Registered Pharmacy Technician (RphT) Practice Exam

The primary difference between generic and brand-name drugs lies in their chemical composition and naming. Generic drugs are chemically identical to their branded counterparts, meaning they contain the same active ingredients, dosage form, strength, and route of administration. They are often sold under their chemical or non-proprietary name, which helps distinguish them from brand names that may be more familiar to consumers.

Generic drugs undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the same standards of quality, safety, and efficacy as the brand-name versions. They are typically marketed at lower prices, making them more accessible to patients while providing the same therapeutic benefits. This identical composition is essential to ensure that patients receive the same medical effect as they would with the brand-name drug, contributing to the increased availability of medications in the healthcare system.

Other aspects, such as branding or perceived effectiveness, do not accurately capture the primary distinction between these two categories of drugs.