Own label versions of over-the-counter medicines are definitely less costly compared to branded medicines and they are absolutely just as effective.

Medicines usually come in variety or several versions that way it can be observed that medications may have several names.

Brand name is the name given by the pharmaceutical company or manufacturing company to the medicine it has produced. It's otherwise known as the "proprietary name".

Proprietary name is the protected brand name or trademark. It is registered with the U.S. Patent Office, by which a manufacturer markets its product. Identified with a capital initial letter, it is often further distinguished by a superscript R in a circle.

Other companies can produced their own version of the medicine after the patent for that particular medicine is done. Take for example, ibuprofen, which is the generic name of a pain reliever. It may come in branded versions, such as Nurofen and Hedex or just under the generic name "ibuprofen" from Boots or Tesco.

These medicines are usually cheaper, cost can be 80% less than the branded version. For the reason that their research and development costs are also lower. However, they certainly contain the same active ingredient as the equivalent branded medicines.

In rare cases, branded medicines are prescribed because they are the most suitable product. If this is the case then doctor's prescription and instruction should take precedence over cost.

Example, the body absorbs some medicines used to treat epilepsy in slightly different ways. Thus, this will largely affect how the medicine works. In such cases, the prescribed brand should be continued to ensure effectivity. Your GP will tell you if this is the right treatment for your particular condition.