Generic alternatives and generic equivalents to brand-name medications may help patients save money. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that it ensures the safety and effectiveness of the generic drugs it approves.1 According to the FDA, a generic drug is identical, or bioequivalent, to a brand-name drug and is "required to have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form and route of administration as the brand-name product."2

A generic alternative is not a direct generic for a particular branded medication, but in most cases it is in the same therapeutic class as the brand. Alternative drugs produce similar clinical outcomes and often have similar side-effect profiles.

Generic drug options

Please refer to the chart below for a list of common brand drugs and corresponding generic and over-the-counter (OTC) alternatives. When a generic equivalent to a brand is listed below, this format is used: name of equivalent generic followed by brand name in parentheses [e.g., benazepril (Lotensin)]. You can also download a printable version of the Humana generic drug guide.

Humana generic drug guide 

Print
*May not be appropriate for persons ages 65 years and older; † indicated for short-term use only.

Please note: The information provided here does not include an exhaustive list of drug contraindications or recommended restrictions and precautions for all patients.

Sources

  1. "Generic Drug Facts," US Food & Drug Administration, last accessed December 3, 2018, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/ resourcesforyou/consumers/buyingusingmedicinesafely/genericdrugs/ucm167991.htm.
  2. "Generic Drug Facts."

Related links for more information

Patient Handout: Frequently Asked Questions About Generic Drugs

U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Office of Generic Drugs

Association for Accessible Medicines

Tools and resources

  • Humana Drug Lists
  • Generic drugs
  • Medication therapy management program
  • CenterWell Pharmacy™
  • CenterWell Specialty Pharmacy™