Saving with Generic Medicines

Doctors in Portugal prescribe by active ingredient (molecule), not brand name. When you go to the pharmacy, they will ask if you want the "Genérico". These are chemically identical to brand-name drugs but cost significantly less.

Always say yes to generics unless you have a specific allergy to an excipient. The price difference can be huge (e.g., €2 vs €15), and they are subject to the same strict safety regulations by Infarmed.