Mercari
Health Insurance Association

Generic drugs are medications that contain the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs and are sold by other manufacturers after the patent on the original drug has expired. They are equivalent in effectiveness, quality, and safety.
Non-active components such as the shape, color, and taste can be improved, allowing manufacturers to apply the latest formulation technologies to make the medicine easier to take or handle.

Generic drugs are less expensive because they do not require the same level of investment in research and development of active ingredients as brand-name drugs.
In addition, they can be developed more efficiently by utilizing the clinical experience and data already accumulated from the use of the original drug, allowing manufacturers to offer them at lower prices.

With Japan’s aging population and advances in medical technology, healthcare costs continue to rise. If this trend continues, it will become increasingly difficult to sustain the national health insurance system.
By choosing generic drugs, which are more affordable than brand-name drugs, we can help reduce overall medical expenses.
Selecting generic drugs is one simple way that anyone can contribute to society.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist and let them know that you would like to use generic drugs.