Generic vs. Brand?
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Generic vs. Brand?
| Thu, 07-20-2006 - 11:06am |
Hi! I was wondering if anyone knew if there is a difference in terms of side effects when using a generic BC rather than a brand one. I used to take Alesse, then swtiched to Levlite and finally, Lessina. I am wondering if side effects like weight gain are different even though the chemical makeup is identical. Any input you could offer would be very much appreciated! Thanks!

Hi tri201, welcome!
Jill
I've been on 3 pills in 1.5 years, and only had a problem once. My doctor prescribed Ortho Novum, but my pharmacy gave me Necon. I had read some bad stories about this generic drug when compared to the brand name, but I didn't have any really bad experience. For the first week or so I had some stomach cramps and issues like that, but that was it. Then I moved & had to change pharmacies to one that didn't carry Necon, but another Ortho Novum generic & that was Nortrel. The jury is still out on that (since I just started my 4th pack), but unfortunately it made me miss my period the first month, have a very dark colored light flow period the next month, and then I had more noticable mentral cramps and stuff, but my period didn't last as long in the 3rd month
I've never had a problem with weight gain or bigger breasts (which was a HUGE concern of mine since I already am a DD).
I know everyone's body responds differently, and so does their psyche (When I was a teen I swear that sometimes just being on a medication & knowing the side effects has made me start to experience them). In what I read in my research when given a new medication, there are some people who swear that brand name drugs are worth the extra money because they feel better on it & I've found people who don't notice any difference.
Good luck with whatever you choose. Hopefully my 2 cents will help. :-)