Are generic drugs the same as branded drugs?

Yes, they offer the same efficacy — often at a lower price. Here's why: Generic drugs must meet the same FDA standards as the brand name drug it's replacing. 

This means that the following must be the same:

• active ingredient
• conditions of use
• dosage
• route of administration
• strength

Certain differences are allowed, such as shape, scoring, storage requirement, and minor labeling or packaging differences. But none of these impact the efficacy.