What “the same” means
The active ingredient produces the intended treatment effect. A generic version uses the same amount of that ingredient and is authorised for the same condition. The Health Products Regulatory Authority reviews medicines before they can be supplied in Ireland and monitors safety after authorisation.
Inactive ingredients can differ. This may matter if you have an allergy or intolerance, even though it does not change the medicine’s intended action. Ask the pharmacist to check the product information.
How substitution works
The HPRA maintains groups of medicines considered suitable for substitution. Products in a group match on active substance, strength, pharmaceutical form and route of administration. A pharmacist may supply a lower-cost interchangeable medicine under the statutory system.
A small number of medicines are not suitable for routine switching. Your prescriber or pharmacist can explain when continuity of a particular product is clinically important.
Check every supply safely
- Match the active ingredient, strength and directions with your prescription.
- Do not take both old and new packs unless a clinician told you to.
- Read the leaflet for ingredients and side effects.
- Ask before crushing, splitting or changing how you take a medicine.
- Report an unexpected effect to a doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Sources and review record
- HPRA: Generic medicines for patients · accessed 11 July 2026.
- HPRA: Generic and interchangeable medicines · accessed 11 July 2026.
This guide provides general information for the Republic of Ireland. Check the linked official guidance for your circumstances and current rules.