manufacturer changes on meds

[princessjammf]

Can changing the manufacturer on your medicine cause them to lose effectiveness or how they are making you feel?  Our insurance changed, and when it did I had to go to mail order meds.  Since I've had to change, I have been struggling with my moods like I did before medication.  (not quite as severe, but it's been a few years since my moods have taken such a severe dive)
Any advice or thoughts would be so welcomed.  I cannot handle feeling like this much longer.............

[xanweaner]

Yes, although the generic manufacturers are supposed to duplicate the exact chemical composition of the name- brand drug that they make, I happen to know that there are differences in the peak serum levels. I used to sell generic drugs and know that there are subtle differences. We used to provide BA/BE studies for our pharmacists and physicians - that's bioavailability and bioequivalency studies, which show things like the peak serum levels, etc.

I have found that I cannot take generic Ambien, so I request brand. Also, my mirtazapine  - I got a rash from one of the brands, so now I have to request TEVA brand.

In conclusion, find out the generic brand that made your last prescription when the drug worked properly then order this brand in the future. The pharmacist will have this info. on file.

Good luck - I hope you can order by manufacturer when you do mail order. You can explain the pharmacist that this is necessary for your health.

[ames67]

Also, the doctor can recommend that you get a certain brand of medication. And if they have to talk with the insurance company, they can argue it is a medical necessity, the magic words in managed care land. Oh and thanks for the info on generic versus name brand above.