Proposals that would allow the dispensing of generic medicines instead of branded medicines in primary care, resulting in long term savings for the NHS, have been set out by the Department of Health.

A 12 week consultation period, which ends on March 30, is underway to get the views on the proposals from the public, patients, the NHS and stakeholders.

These proposals would mean in some cases, a patient’s medicine might look slightly different to the one they were previously used to. However, the drug itself would be the same.

Pharmacists will be able to dispense generic medicines instead of branded products unless otherwise stated on the prescription form. Health professionals would still be able to stipulate on a prescription form where they do not think it appropriate due to medical reasons for medicines to be substituted with the generic version.

"We want to make sure that patients and taxpayers are getting the best medicines at the best price," said Health Minister Mike O’Brien. "Where clinically appropriate, it is only sensible to allow more expensive branded products to be substituted with the same generic medicines which are just as effective as the branded version.

"Introducing generic medicine substitution will deliver value for money and savings to the NHS which will go directly back into health services, ultimately benefitting patients and improving the care they receive."

Further details, including the consultation document visit www.dh.gov.uk/en/Consultations/index.htm