Generics contain the same active ingredient as the brand-name versions and usually cost much less. For that reason, more people now choose to buy medicine online, from eye drops such as bimatoprost to weight loss capsules such as orlistat. A few simple checks goes a long way.
Step one: a valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine. A careful store will always ask to see it. Avoid any website that does not ask for one.
Then check the product: the active ingredient, the strength and the pack size should be easy to find. Generic tablets may look different from the brand you know, and that is expected.
To read a fuller guide, this practical guide covers the key checks.
A few examples: bimatoprost eye drops are used once a day in the evening, and you should wait five minutes between different drops. Orlistat 120 mg is generic orlistat taken with meals that contain fat and works best with a low-fat diet, plus a multivitamin at bedtime.
On delivery, compare the pack with your prescription and keep the leaflet. Let your doctor know which product you are taking.
More tips are here.
This is general information, not medical advice. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medicine.