Knowing how to identify generic medicines is essential for accessing affordable, effective healthcare. Generic medicines are copies of brand-name drugs, manufactured once the original patent has expired. They contain the identical active ingredient(s), are of the same quality and strength, and must demonstrate the same therapeutic effect as their branded counterparts, but are typically offered at a significantly lower cost [1]. This guide will help you understand and navigate the world of generic medicines, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and finances. By learning to identify generic alternatives, you can substantially reduce your out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
Colour Coding Generics – A Step Toward Better Medicine Identification
Colour coding systems can be an important tool for identifying and distinguishing medicines globally. For instance, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has referenced a voluntary colour coding system for medication container caps to help standardise medication dispensing, thereby potentially reducing the risk of accidental misuse [2].
It is important to note that a universal, standardised, mandatory colour-coding system for tablets or capsules based on their category (e.g., anti-infectives, beta-blockers) is not globally or consistently implemented across all manufacturers or drug classes in India or many other countries.
Note: While some countries or specific hospital systems might use internal or localised colour codes, relying solely on a pill’s colour for identification is highly unsafe. The colour of a medicine is often determined by inactive ingredients (excipients) and dyes, and can vary significantly between manufacturers, even for the same drug.
|
Medicine Category |
Color Code (Example – Not Universal) |
| Anti-infectives | Tan |
| Beta-blockers | Yellow |
| Cytotoxic drugs | Black |
This system, where it is used (such as for cap colours), aims to enhance safety by facilitating the accurate grouping of medications. However, it is not a substitute for checking the label.
How to Identify Affordable Healthcare Medicine?
Identifying a generic medicine is a straightforward process that can help you purchase your essential medication without compromising on its efficacy and safety.
1. Check the Medicine’s Name
To identify a generic medicine, always check the label for the active ingredient or generic name, rather than the brand name. For example, a common branded pain reliever might contain the active ingredient ‘Paracetamol’ (the generic name). Familiarising yourself with common generic names can help you recognise equivalent, safe, and cost-effective alternatives.
2. Compare Prices
Generic medicines are often significantly cheaper than their brand-name counterparts. Studies and government data frequently indicate that generic options can cost anywhere from 20% to over 80% less [1], [3]. When comparing prices at your local pharmacy or online, a substantially lower price is often a strong indicator that a medicine is a generic version. However, a lower price is only one indicator; efficacy and quality remain identical to the branded version [1].
3. Look for Different Packaging
Another way to distinguish between generic and branded medicines is by examining the packaging. Generic drugs often have simpler, more basic packaging, as manufacturers focus on cost efficiency rather than extensive branding, logos, and colours associated with brand-name products. While the packaging may differ, rest assured that the contents are equivalent in terms of quality, strength, and effectiveness, as mandated by regulatory bodies [1].
4. Read Drug Information Leaflets
The medication leaflet provided with your prescription can also help you identify generic versions. Per regulatory requirements, generic drug leaflets must closely match those of their brand-name counterparts. They contain similar, detailed information on usage, administration, warnings, and guidelines for safe use. The leaflet is a crucial source of information for the patient and confirms the active ingredient(s) and proper usage [4].
5. Ask a Pharmacist or Doctor
If you are ever unsure whether your prescription has been filled with a generic medicine, the most reliable step is to ask your Licensed Pharmacist or Doctor. They can confirm if a generic substitution has been made and provide information on why it was chosen. In many cases, your healthcare provider will proactively recommend generic options to help you save money without compromising your health outcomes.
Where to Buy Genuine Generic Medicines in India?
Ensuring access to genuine generic medicines is crucial for affordable healthcare in India. To guarantee quality and safety, only purchase from regulated and authorised channels. Here are some reliable sources to consider when purchasing generic medicines:
- Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs): These are Government of India-backed retail stores established under the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, offering affordable, high-quality generic medicines [5].
- Licensed Pharmacies: Always obtain medications from pharmacies that are fully licensed and regulated by state or national authorities to ensure quality and safety.
- Authorised Online Platforms: Choose regulated online pharmacies that verify prescriptions and adhere to all national drug sale regulations to avoid counterfeit medicines and ensure you receive genuine products.
Generic medicines offer an excellent solution for affordable healthcare, providing significant cost savings without compromising on efficacy or safety. By opting for generic medications, individuals and healthcare systems can achieve substantial financial savings, promoting health equity and making high-quality healthcare more attainable for all.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or Licensed Pharmacist before making changes to your medication. Never self-diagnose or change dosage without professional guidance. Ensure medicines are purchased only from authorised and regulated sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are generic medicines as effective as brand-name drugs?
Yes, generic medicines must meet the same standards of quality, safety, efficacy, and purity as brand-name drugs, as regulated by national authorities like the CDSCO in India and the FDA in the US [1].
Why are generic medicines cheaper than branded ones?
They cost less because manufacturers do not bear the original, substantial expenses related to drug discovery, research, development, and marketing, making them more affordable while maintaining their effectiveness [1].
How can I confirm if I’ve been given a generic version of a medicine?
The most reliable method is to check the label for the generic name of the active ingredient and consult your Licensed Pharmacist or doctor for confirmation.
Where can I buy genuine generic medicines in India?
Genuine generics should be purchased at PMBJK stores, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, licensed pharmacies, and verified online platforms regulated by health authorities [5].
References
[1] Center for Drug Evaluation, & Research. (2024, October 4). Generic Drugs: Questions & Answers. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/frequently-asked-questions-popular-topics/generic-drugs-questions-answers
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2020, December 18). Color Coding to Identify the Contents of a Drug Container Cap. https://www.fda.gov/media/144673/download
[3] Alfonso-Cristancho, R., Andia, T., Barbosa, T., & Watanabe, J. H. (2015). Definition and classification of generic drugs across the world. Applied Health Economics and Health Policy, 13(Suppl 1), S5–S11. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40258-015-0158-1
[4] European Medicines Agency (EMA). (2012, March 12). Generic and hybrid medicines. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory-overview/marketing-authorisation/generic-hybrid-medicines
[5] Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana. (n.d.). About PMBJP. Retrieved November 3, 2025, from https://janaushadhi.gov.in/