Can your pharmacist substitute a generic drug for a name-brand drug as long as the doctor did not specify?

Question

can your pharmacist substitute a generic drug for a name-brand drug as long as the doctor did not specify?

Answer 1

Yeah, generally they can and will unless the patient specifies not to do so.

Answer 2

if the doctor did not specify DAW (dispense as written) or NO SUBSTITUTIONS on the prescription the pharmacy can fill that prescription with a generic if it is available.

the patient also can tell the pharmacy he/she would like brand...but they better hope their insurance will pay for brand otherwise the claim will be rejected (b/c brand is not on their formulary) or the prescription may need a prior authorization

Answer 3

The substitution is also determined by your insurance carrier.Often medical insurers specify how much of the cost will be covered under certain plans. The pharmacist will attempt to get you the most affordable drug to help minimize your out of pocket expenses. The doctors OK is still required and the pharmacist will contact him/her. The chemical composition of generics are the same as the brand name product.

Answer 4

Yes...sometimes though the pharmacy will contact the Dr's office and ask if it's ok.

Answer 5

In some states it is mandatory that the generic be substituted, if there is a generic available. In that case if you want the brand the pharmacy will have to contact the doctor to change the prescription. Other states will allow the patient to choose brand or generic but be aware that there may be a big difference in the price.

In all cases, if the doctor did not specify and the patient wants the generic (and a generic is available on the market) then it will be dispensed.