What is the legislation on Generic Medicines and how will this effect me?

The legislation on generic medicine, which came into effect on 2 May 2003, makes it compulsory for a pharmacist to inform patients of the benefits of changing over to a generic medicine from a brand-name medicine prescribed by the doctor.

In accordance with the new generic medicine legislation the following applies:

• A generic medicine may be offered to the patient, provided that its price is less than that of the prescribed brand-name medicine.
• The patient has the right to refuse the substitution to the generic medicine.
• A generic medicine substitution may not take place if the doctor has written, in his/her own handwriting, on the prescription the words “no substitution” next to the medicine prescribed.

It is no longer necessary for the pharmacist to consult with the doctor prior to making a generic substitution. The decision to substitute now rests with the patient, following the advice of the pharmacist.