A drug which is under patent by its original innovator or marketer. The patent protects the drug from competition from other drug companies. This list is subject to periodic review and modification by the health plan. A drug manufactured and distributed after the patent of the innovator brand-name drug has expired. The generic drug must have the same active ingredient, strength and dosage form as its brand-name counterpart.
Generic drugs are much less expensive than brand name drugs.
For example, the brand name for one tranquilizer is Valium, but it is also available under the generic name diazepam. Also called generic equivalent . TalkBack to CalPERS . California Public Employees' Retirement System . See Disclaimer .