Generic medicines contain the same active ingredient as the brand-name versions and usually cost much less. That is why more people now buy generic medicine online, from eye drops such as bimatoprost to weight loss capsules such as orlistat. A little care goes a long way.
First, the prescription: 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 clearly listed. Generic packs often look different from the brand you know, and that is expected.
If you want more detail, see this plain-English guide covers the key checks.
Some common examples: bimatoprost eye drops are buy generic medicine online used once a day in the evening, and you should wait five minutes between different drops. Orlistat 120 mg is 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. Tell your doctor which product you are taking.
There is more detail in this article.
This article is for general information only. Always check with your doctor before starting a new medicine.