FDA News

FDA Releases Names of Drugs Now Available as Money-Saving Generics

(Feb 24, 2009)-- Each year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves scores of generic drugs that treat a wide variety of conditions and help consumers save money.

In a February 2009 roundup of approved generics, the following were listed:

Commercial Name Generic Name Purpose
Risperdal Risperidone Treat schizophreia, bipolar disorder, et al
Depakote Divalproex Sodium Treat seizures, bipolar disorder, migraines
Requip Ropinirole Hydrochloride Treat restless leg syndrome
CoSopt Dorzolamide Treat ocular hypertension & certain glaucomas
Razadyne Galantamine Treat dementia of Alzheimer’s type

FACT is a not-for-profit association which was founded in 1984 and which provides a variety of benefits -- ranging from medical insurance and dental care discounts to prescription drug savings and timely consumer information -- for more than 1 million Americans.

Vicki Rolens, managing director of FACT, says: “According to the FDA, generic drugs cost 20% to 70% less than their brand name counterparts. If you are presently taking one of the above name brands, it is suggested that you contact your doctor and see if he or she is in agreement with the switch to its generic equivalent.”

Generics are, according to the FDA, identical to the name brands in dosage, safety, strength, quality, performance characteristics, intended use, and the way they’re administered to patients.

For more information -- including links to good sources of information about generics and prescription drug savings in general -- consumers may visit the FACT Web site: http://www.usafact.org

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