[header] How to choose between generic and brand name medication [title] Understand that generic and brand name drugs contain the same active ingredient. [step] The u.s. food and drug administration requires that generic drugs contain the same active ingredient as the respective brand name drug. This means both generics and brand name medications contain the same active drug, which will have the same effect in your body. 
[title] Know that generic and brand name drugs are identical in strength. [step] The fda requires that brand name drugs and their generic equivalents are administered in the same manner, have the same dosage form, and are equivalent in strength.