Watch CBS News

Why All Generics Are Not Alike

Written by Dr. Dave Hnida, CBS4 Medical EditorSome important news if you take the anti-depressant Wellbutrin, or specifically an extended release version of the medication called Budeprion XL 300-- you may not be getting the benefits you should.

Odds are, you don't take the name brand of this drug ... instead you are given a less-expensive generic. In fact, the vast majority of meds we take come in generic rather than name brand form.

And that's okay, since the FDA keeps a close eye on making sure the generic works just as well as the name brand.

So, as I come full circle here, you probably see that I'm going to tell you the FDA has found the generic extended release Wellbutrin 300 mg manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals is not up to standards. In other words, it doesn't work as well as the name brand.

That means if you are using this generic equivalent, it's time to make a trip to the pharmacy for an exchange. You should not be charged for this exchange by your insurance company -- it's not your fault the manufacturer didn't cut the mustard on this one.

BTW, since there may be a number of people making the switch, call the pharmacy first to make sure they have it in stock.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.