Is there a real difference between Alesse and the generic Aviane?

Question

I was prescribed Alesse after much difficulty with higher dosage BCPs. However, my stupid Walgreen's pharmacy will only fill with Avaine, and the pharmacist told me, "don't worry, it's the same".

Since switching to Aviane, I have absolutely no sex drive. I did not have this problem with Alesse. Could the Aviane be to blame? And if so, any recommendations?

Answer 1

In the US, a brand name drug and a generic drug have to be bioequivalent, meaning that they have to have the same effects. They have to contain the same amount of active ingredient(s) and work the same way. A brand name drug gets a patent so that no one else can make it while the patent is valid, this is how the drug company recovers its costs for researching and developing the drug. After the patent expires, the generic companies can make the same thing, but not have to charge so much becase they never had to do R&D. Basically this can sum it up: generic drug is not equal to inferior drug.

Why is the pharmacist stupid? He is trying to save you money while giving you the same therapy.

Answer 2

Alesse Generic

Answer 3

Aviane Generic

Answer 4

The only difference between a generic and its brand name is a lot of money. They are exactly the same. There are many things which can cause a decreased sex drive.

Answer 5

the only difference in the two is about 15 dollars.

I would assert your loss of sex drive is due to your worrying about whether the two medicines are the same.....which they are.

The Walgreen's is not 'stupid'. Perhaps you weren't listening when they advised you of your options. You can always get the brand if you want it, but that doesn't mean your insurance will pay for it. Which is what they probably told you.

Answer 6

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