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Medicine Names

Volume 571: debated on Wednesday 24 April 1996

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asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether they will take steps to reduce the confusion caused to patients by the variety of names given to the same drug.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health
(Baroness Cumberlege)

The "brand name" of a medicine is determined by the manufacturer and is considered for its suitability by the licensing authority before a product is put on the market. Where a "brand name" is used for a medicine, the "generic" or "common" name of the active ingredient must always be shown clearly on all labelling in addition.