Brands vs Generics: What’s the Difference in OTC Medications?

Walk into any pharmacy and you’ll see two versions of the same product: a brand name like Tylenol® and a generic like acetaminophen. The packages look different, the brand is usually more expensive, and it’s natural to wonder:Do they actually work the same?

The short answer is yes — and here’s why.

What Makes a Medication “Generic”?

A generic medication must meet strict FDA standards. That means:

Same active ingredient:If the brand uses acetaminophen, the generic must contain the same ingredient.

Same strength and dosage form:Whether tablet, liquid, capsule, or chewable, the dosage and amount of medication are identical.

Same effectiveness:The FDA requires that generics work in the body the same way as the brand.

Generics are not lower-quality versions. They are FDA-approved medicines that match the brand in safety, strength, and effectiveness — often at a much lower cost.

Why Do Brand-Name Medications Exist?

Brand-name medications are the original products developed through research and clinical trials. They are protected by patents for several years.Once those patents expire, other companies can produce the same medication as a generic.

Example:

• Brand: Tylenol®

• Generic: Acetaminophen (including store brands like CVS Health, Kirkland, or Equate)

Brand vs. Generic Pricing

Here are some price comparisons to show typical savings:

Pain/Fever

• Tylenol Extra Strength (100 tablets): $12–15

• Generic acetaminophen (100 tablets): $6–8

• Savings: About 50%

Allergies

• Claritin (30 tablets): $20–25

• Generic loratadine (30 tablets): $8–12

• Savings: About 60%

Heartburn

• Prilosec OTC (14 tablets): $15–18

• Generic omeprazole (14 tablets): $8–10

• Savings: About 45%

Indigestion

• Pepcid AC (30 tablets): $18–20

• Generic famotidine (30 tablets): $9–11

• Savings: About 50%

  
  

Choosing the generic usually cuts the cost dramatically — with no difference in how well the medicine works.

Are There Any Differences?

Inactive ingredients:Dyes, fillers, and flavorings may differ.This only matters if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Packaging and marketing:Brand-name products often stand out because of advertising and recognizable boxes.The generic might look plain, but the medicine inside is the same.

Personal preference:Some people feel brands “work better” because they’re familiar.However, scientifically, generics work the same way.

Pharmacist Tips

• If you want to save money, choose the generic. It’s equally effective and safe.

• If you have allergies to dyes or fillers, check the inactive ingredients on the label.

• Ask your pharmacist if you’re unsure — we can compare the products side by side.

Bottom Line

Generics contain the same medicine as the brand name — they just cost less.Brands cost more because of marketing and name recognition, not because they work better.

For most people, the smarter choice is the generic.

Explore the PharmOTC+ Symptom Navigator to compare brand and generic options for every condition — and choose what fits your health needs and your budget.