What's the difference between birth control brands and what is a generic?

Is generic birth control the same as the brand?
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‍Yep! All FDA generic medications must have the same active ingredients (meaning the same hormones and same dosage). As such, they provide the same benefits and risks as the brand name versions and are equally as effective and safe.

Is anything different between generics?

‍While the active ingredients are the same among generics, the inactive ingredients can vary so if you have allergies or intolerances, it’s best to check the inactive ingredient list before trying a new generic.

Generic birth control contains the same active ingredients, hormone levels, and dosage as brand-name options—meaning it’s just as effective and safe. For example, generic options like Norethindrone, Vienva, Microgestin 1/20, Isibloom, and Mono-Linyah all provide the same contraceptive protection as their brand-name counterparts. If you’re looking to save money while staying protected, these generics are a reliable choice.

That said, some people may prefer or require brand-name versions due to reactions to inactive ingredients or previous issues with generics. In those cases, options like Sprintec (Ortho-Cyclen), NuvaRing, Lo Loestrin Fe, Yaz, or Junel 1/20 might be a better fit. If your insurance doesn’t automatically cover the brand, you can ask your provider about coverage exceptions based on medical need.

Why was I switched to a generic?

‍There are a number of reasons as to why a pharmacy might switch your generic birth control. Most commonly, if you’re using insurance, insurance companies often have a preferred drug list. This list consists of the prescriptions drugs they cover and the cost to its members, which is dependent on negotiations with the drug manufacturers and can change throughout the year.

Alternatively, sometimes the drug manufacturers place specific brands and/or generics on backorder, meaning the pharmacy is unable to purchase it at that time. In this instance, the pharmacy may fill a medically equivalent generic to ensure you receive your medication on time.