Massachusetts Pharmacy Technician License Practice Test

Which of the following is true about generic drugs?

1. They are always more expensive than brand-name drugs

2. They can only be substituted if the prescriber has allowed it

3. They never have side effects

4. They do not require FDA approval

The correct answer is: They can only be substituted if the prescriber has allowed it

Generic drugs are typically designed to be bioequivalent to their brand-name counterparts, meaning they have the same active ingredients, strength, dosage form, and route of administration. However, a key aspect of the substitution process is that it often requires approval from the prescriber. If a prescriber has explicitly indicated "no substitution" on the prescription, the pharmacy cannot substitute the branded drug with its generic equivalent. This is foundational in practice to ensure that the patient receives the specific medication deemed appropriate by their healthcare provider. In terms of the other options, generic drugs are generally less expensive than brand-name drugs, contradicting the first statement. The idea that generic drugs never have side effects is misleading, as all medications can potentially cause side effects, regardless of whether they are generic or brand-name. Lastly, all medications, including generics, must receive FDA approval before they can be sold to ensure they meet safety and efficacy standards. Therefore, the proper understanding of when and how generic drugs can be substituted is crucial in pharmacy practice.