Translation guide
A medication sold under its chemical name rather than a brand name, typically cheaper and bioequivalent to the original.
Referring to a non-brand-name medication in everyday or medical contexts.
The standard formal term for a generic drug, used in medical and official contexts.
このジェネリック医薬品は先発品より安いです。
This generic drug is cheaper than the brand-name one.
Literally 'later-developed drug', a formal term often used in medical and insurance contexts.
後発医薬品の使用を促進しています。
We are promoting the use of generic drugs.
Common abbreviation used in everyday conversation and pharmacy settings.
ジェネリックに切り替えてもいいですか？
Can I switch to the generic version?
Asking for or discussing generic alternatives when filling a prescription.
A natural way to request the generic version at a pharmacy.
この薬、ジェネリックでお願いします。
I'd like the generic version of this medicine, please.
More formal way to request the generic, using the term 後発品.
後発品でお願いします。
I'd like the generic, please.
Talking about the lower price or insurance coverage of generics.
Pattern to compare cost: 'the generic is cheaper'.
ジェネリックの方がずっと安いですよ。
The generic is much cheaper, you know.
Used to say that insurance covers the generic drug.
ジェネリックにも保険が効きます。
Insurance covers the generic too.
When you hand over your prescription, you can simply say 「ジェネリックでお願いします」 to request the generic version. Many pharmacies will ask if you prefer the generic anyway.