A Davao City health official has reminded residents that generic medicines can provide the same therapeutic benefits as their branded counterparts when they meet regulatory standards, while warning the public against self-medication and improper use of prescriptions.
Gemma Pujanes, pharmacy unit head of the Davao City Health Office, said on September 30 that lower prices should not be mistaken for lower quality. She emphasized that consumers should make sure medicines are approved by the Food and Drug Administration and purchased from licensed pharmacies.
Pujanes also reminded residents that Republic Act 6675, or the Generics Act of 1988, gives patients the right to ask pharmacies for generic alternatives to prescribed medicines. Pharmacies are required to provide information on available generic medicines and their prices, allowing consumers to compare options based on their needs and budget.
She stressed, however, that choosing a generic medicine should not mean taking medication without proper medical guidance. Residents were particularly warned against self-medicating with antibiotics or using old prescriptions for recurring symptoms.
Antibiotics are intended to treat bacterial infections and do not work against viral illnesses such as the common cold and flu. Using antibiotics when they are not needed, taking them incorrectly or stopping treatment prematurely can contribute to antimicrobial resistance, which can make some infections more difficult to treat.
Pujanes also advised patients to follow the prescribed dosage and instructions provided by healthcare professionals. Reusing an old prescription without consulting a doctor may be inappropriate because similar symptoms can have different causes and may require different treatment.
Residents were likewise urged to inspect medicines before taking them. They should check expiration dates and avoid products with damaged packaging or improperly cut blister packs, particularly when purchasing from informal or unauthorized sellers.
Proper storage is another important part of medicine safety. Pujanes said patients should follow the storage instructions printed on the medicine’s label or those provided by a pharmacist rather than assuming that every liquid medicine or antibiotic needs to be refrigerated.
For liquid medicines, including some syrups and antibiotics that require mixing with water, the safe period of use can vary depending on the product. Consumers should therefore follow the specific instructions for each medicine and avoid using products beyond their recommended period after opening or preparation.
The Davao City Health Office also continues to provide access to essential and maintenance medicines through government health facilities and Botika ng Bayan outlets. Residents seeking medicines through these programs may need a valid prescription and other required documents, depending on the medication and service.
The health official’s reminders come as authorities continue promoting access to affordable medicines while emphasizing that affordability must be matched with responsible use. For consumers, checking regulatory approval, purchasing from licensed pharmacies, following prescriptions and consulting healthcare professionals can help reduce the risks associated with improper medication use.
