Reply To: Side effects of Strattera vs. generic?

[Patte Rosebank]

This is a big issue for us.

Generics (and even different brands of generics) can be as much as 10% less potent to 10% more potent than the branded versions, yet still be considered bio-equivalent to the branded version.

This is fine for headache pills and cold remedies, but it can be disastrous in meds for mental issues. Each generic can have different fillers, which often include ingredients which carry a high risk of sensitivities, including milk products and gluten.

In most jurisdictions, pharmacists can substitute a generic (or change the brand of generic) without even asking or telling the patient. I’ve been burned by this when my pharmacy changed the generic brand of EffexorXR to one that not only suddenly didn’t
work, but caused side effects. My pharmacy now has to special-order the brand that works for me.

And I have to make sure my doctor HAND-WRITES ”NO SUBSTITUTIONS” on every prescription, and I have to remind the pharmacy every time, just to be sure I get exactly what I need.

There are Forum threads about generics, and some videos on the Videos page & YouTube channel. They’ll give you more info about it.

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