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How to Know If Your Generic Medicines Are Safe. Save money on your prescriptions and
ensure safety by following these guidelines. You will need Your doctor A prescription Your
pharmacist and a health plan administrator (optional). Step 1. Ask your doctor whether
there is enough difference between the brand-name and generic medication to warrant requesting
"No substitution" on the prescription. Step 2. Ask your pharmacist if a generic substitution
has been AB-rated by the FDA. An AB-rated drug has been determined to be bioequivalent
to the branded drug. Step 3. Ask your pharmacist who the manufacturer of the generic medication
is, and where it was manufactured. A generic may not be your least expensive option, especially
if you have a drug discount card. Ask your pharmacist or plan administrator if you have
questions. Step 4. Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience new side effects or relapses
after you begin using a generic substitution. Did you know According to a 2008 report from
the AARP, a 1 percent increase in generic drug use could save consumers and the health
care system up to $4 billion.