How to request the right version of generics?

Find the specific information for your generic prescriptions

5 min read • 2024-07-26

Following the article about Authorized Generics, many readers have asked about how to ask for authorized generics from regular generics. Since both authorized generics and regular generics are often named by the active ingredients, they are difficult to be requested by names alone. To differentiate the generics, you may request your preferred versions by manufacturer name or by National Drug Code (NDC).

How to find the manufacturer name?

The manufacturer name can be found on the package. The name is also listed in the prescribing information, at the very top or at the end. Prescribing information is the piece of folded paper included in the medicine packaging.

For example, the left is the package of Symbicort, a type of inhaler, and the right is the authorized generic version. The manufacturers' names are listed on the packaging boxes. Both are in fact manufactured by the same company in France - AstraZeneca!

Credit: Google, Reddit

Same drug can often come in multiple strengths or package sizes. To avoid any confusion and be more specific about your request, you can ask by NDCs as well when talking to your pharmacy.

What is the National Drug Code?

The National Drug Code (NDC) is a unique identifier assigned to each medication. It consists of a 10-digit or 11-digit, three-segment number. Here’s what each segment represents:

• Labeler: The first segment identifies the company that manufactures or distributes the drug.
• Product: The second segment specifies the drug itself, including its name, dosage, and strength.
• Package Size: The third segment indicates the commercial package size.

Credit: U.S. Food & Drug Administration

How to find the NDC of a drug?

The code can be found on the packaging or the prescription receipt. If not sure, you may ask your pharmacist to confirm or check in the pharmacy data system.

As examples, I was recently prescribed steroid pills and generic EpiPens for allergic reaction to a dozen wasp stings.

For the EpiPen generic, the NDC is clearly marked, even as a barcode on the label.

On the other hand, the steroid pills came in an unbranded orange bottle. The label only specifies the drug and manufactuer name. The NDC could be found on the prescription receipt.

How to request for the specific generics?

When you have found a drug that works well, you may reqeuest to continue the same medication when getting refill from your doctor and pharmacy. On the other hand, you may also request to try the authorized generic, if available, when you do not feel better on your current treatment.

• Let your doctor know how your feel on your current drug. Discuss with your doctor for the best treatment plan for your condition. Remind your doctor to specify "Do Not Substitue" or "Dispense as Written (DAW)" when sending prescription to the pharmracy. The note makes sure that your specific prescription would not be replaced by other brands or generics.
• Check your insurance formulary or PillPointer for out-of-pocket cost, copay or coverage limitation.
• Call your pharmacy to confirm availability of the authorized or your preferred generics. Each pharmacy typically stocks each generic drug from one manufactuer only. The specific version may need to be a special order, or only available at another pharmacy.

As always, make sure to check your insurance formulary, ask for the cash price, and shop around pharmacies to get the best deal on your medications!

What is your experience finding and requesting for your preferred generics?

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