Why does my refill look different from my last one?
A refill that looks different is usually the same medicine from a different manufacturer. Here is how to check, and when to call your pharmacist.
If your refill looks different from your last one, the most common reason is that your pharmacy now buys your generic medicine from a different manufacturer. The active ingredient and strength stay the same, but the color, shape, size or imprint can change. Always check, though, because a change can also mean a new dose or a dispensing mistake.
Why generic pills change
Many companies make the same generic medicine, and pharmacies switch between them depending on price and supply. Each company’s pill looks different. In the US, trademark laws don’t allow a generic to look exactly like the brand-name drug, and each company uses its own imprint.
The FDA requires a generic to have the same active ingredient, strength and dosage form as the brand-name medicine, and to work the same way in the body. Colors, flavors and some other parts can differ, and the FDA says these differences don’t affect how the medicine works.
How to check your new pills
- Read the label. Check that the drug name and strength on the bottle match your prescription.
- Look up the imprint. Type the imprint on your new pill into our pill imprint search and check that it matches the drug and strength on your label.
- Check the NDC. The NDC number on the label identifies the maker and product. An NDC lookup shows what those pills should look like.
- Ask your pharmacist. If anything doesn’t match, or you’re unsure, call before taking the new pills.
When to call your pharmacist straight away
- The imprint search shows a different drug or strength from the one on your label.
- The bottle contains a mix of different-looking pills.
- The label shows a drug or strength you didn’t expect.
- You notice new side effects after switching.
If you take several medicines
Pills that change appearance can cause mix-ups, especially for anyone using a pill organizer. Keep a list of your medicines with what each one looks like, and update it whenever a refill changes.
Common questions
Is a generic medicine as good as the brand?
The FDA requires a generic to have the same active ingredient, strength and dosage form as the brand-name medicine, and to work the same way in the body.
Can I ask my pharmacy to keep the same manufacturer?
You can ask. Many pharmacies will try, but it depends on what their suppliers have in stock.
My new pills are a different color. Will they work differently?
According to the FDA, differences in color don’t affect how a medicine works. If you notice new side effects after a switch, tell your pharmacist or doctor.