Facts and Myths about Generic Medicines Filipinos Should Know


Access to affordable and effective medicines is a top priority for many Filipinos when it comes to managing health. Generic medicines have served as a practical alternative to branded drugs for years, as they provide the same therapeutic benefits at a fraction of the cost. Yet, despite their affordability, generics often face skepticism from consumers who question their quality and effectiveness.
Much of this doubt stems from long-standing myths and misconceptions about how generic medicines are produced, tested, and marketed. Unfortunately, misinformation can lead people to place branded medicines on a pedestal while overlooking the value of generics—a damagingly costly choice in the long run. Efforts to dispel these myths through education, on the other hand, can help Filipinos make wiser healthcare choices overall and bring accessible treatments within reach of as many people in the country as possible.
This article will explore some of the most common myths about generic medicines and highlight must-know facts to give readers the most accurate information. By the end, you’ll have the assurance that you can trust generic medicine Philippines’ manufacturers produce.
MYTH: Generic Medicines Are Less Effective
The idea that generic medicines are “second best” remains a persistent belief for many. Some think that because these medicines are cheaper, they must be less potent or slower to produce results.
In truth, generic medicines are bioequivalent to branded drugs, meaning they contain the same active ingredients in the same concentration and form. This ensures that they work just as effectively as their branded counterparts. Regulatory bodies in the healthcare sector also require generics to meet strict standards for quality and performance before they can be sold.
MYTH: Generic Medicines Are Not as Safe
Safety concerns often arise from the misconception that generic medicines are manufactured under less stringent conditions. This can make people hesitant to trust them, especially for long-term use. But generic medicines actually undergo rigorous testing and regulatory scrutiny to confirm that they meet the same safety and quality standards as branded drugs.
In the Philippines, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) monitors manufacturing practices to ensure that every generic medicine on the market is produced in facilities that comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). These measures guarantee that generics are not only safe, but also consistently effective.
MYTH: Generic Medicines Are Cheap Because They’re Low Quality
It’s easy to associate lower prices with lower quality, but when it comes to generic medicines, affordability doesn’t equal inferiority. The price difference has more to do with the manufacturing process than the product’s effectiveness. Unlike branded medicines, generics don’t carry the financial burden of extensive research and development.
Once the patent for a branded drug expires, other manufacturers can produce the same formulation without incurring high initial costs. This allows them to sell the medicine at a lower price, passing the savings on to you.
FACT: FDA-Approved
FDA approval is one of the strongest assurances you can have that generic medicines are trustworthy. Before any generic drug can be sold, it must meet strict regulatory standards to ensure it is just as safe and effective as its branded counterpart.
This isn’t just a formality—it involves rigorous testing for bioequivalence, which verifies that the generic has the same effect on the body as the original drug. This process guarantees that when you take a generic medicine, you’re getting the same therapeutic benefits as you would from a more expensive brand.
FACT: Doctors Are Required to Prescribe Generic Options
Did you know that Filipino doctors, legally required to include the generic name of a medicine when writing prescriptions? This mandate comes from the Generics Act of 1988. A law designed to promote the use of affordable medicines across the country.
Doctors that include generic names empower patients to exercise more control over their treatment. So that cost doesn’t become a barrier to receiving necessary care. When you visit your doctor, don’t hesitate to ask about generic options—they are often just as effective, but much easier on the budget.
FACT: The Appearance of Generic Medicines May Vary
It’s not uncommon for generic medicines to look different from their branded counterparts in terms of color, shape, or packaging. However, these variations in appearance are primarily due to branding or trademark protections that apply to the original drug’s design. They also have no bearing on the efficacy of the drug itself. What truly matters is the active ingredient inside, which remains identical to that of the branded version.
FACT: Generic Medicines Are Used Worldwide
If you think generics are only common in developing countries, think again. They’re actually trusted and widely used around the world. Even in nations with some of the most stringent healthcare regulations, like the United States and European Union. In fact, many hospitals and clinics worldwide rely heavily on generics to provide affordable care to patients. Knowing this reality should inspire confidence in their use here in the Philippines.
Consumers that understand the truth about generic medicines will be in the best place to make smart. A cost-effective healthcare decisions for themselves and their loved ones. On your part, the knowledge won’t only help you save money. They also enable you to act in support of a healthcare system that values accessibility and equality.
When choosing medicines, trust in the science and standards behind generics—they’re a choice that benefits everyone.

Aside from being a businessman, Josh Austria has been working in PR and media industry for more more than a decade. From his years of experience as the Marketing and Advertising Head of Village Pipol Magazine, he has built strong relationships with creative people, brands, and organizations.