How Generic Medications Compare to Brand Names

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When it comes to managing your health, understanding your medication options can save you time, stress, and money. Generic medications are often a cost-effective alternative to brand-name drugs, but many patients wonder if they work as well or are as safe. The answer is yes! Here’s what you need to know about how generic medications compare to brand-name options and why they might be the right choice for you. 

What Makes Generic Medications Equivalent? 

Generic medications must meet strict FDA standards to be approved for use. They are designed to work in the same way and provide the same benefits as their brand-name equivalents. This means that they:  

  • Contain the same active ingredients.  
  • Are taken in the same form (e.g., tablet, capsule, liquid).  
  • Have the same strength, dosage, and safety profile.  
  • Perform the same way in the body.  

While the active ingredients are identical, some differences may exist in the inactive ingredients. These are substances like colors and flavorings that do not affect how the medication works but may account for variations in color or taste. Furthermore, trademark laws in the United States do not allow a generic drug to look exactly like other drugs already on the market, hence why the shape and overall appearance of the medicine might differ from its brand-name counterpart. 

Are Generics as Safe and Effective?

Yes! Generic medications are held to the same standards as brand-name drugs. Generic drugs are approved only after testing and review by the FDA to verify their safety, quality, and effectiveness. Many healthcare providers and pharmacists recommend generics as a reliable and affordable option for treating various conditions.  

Why Are Generic Medications Cheaper?  

One of the main differences between brand-name and generic drugs is the cost. Brand-name medications are typically more expensive because the original manufacturer invests heavily in research, development, and marketing. Once the patent expires, other manufacturers can produce generics, eliminating the need for these added expenses. This competition among manufacturers drives down the cost of generics by 80 to 85%, making them more affordable for patients.  

Who Benefits From Generics?

Generic medications can help almost everyone, but they’re especially helpful for certain groups. People with chronic conditions often need medications for a long time, and generics can make these treatments much more affordable. If you don’t have insurance or have limited coverage, generic options are a budget-friendly way to get the care you need. 

Families with several prescriptions also benefit because generics help keep costs manageable, making it easier to afford medications for everyone in the household.

At NOAH’s full-service pharmacy, we make it easy for you to get what you need at a reasonable price. Our pharmacy team can work with you and your healthcare provider to determine if a generic alternative is available and appropriate for your treatment. To speak with a member of our pharmacy team, stop by Cholla Health Center or call 480-903-3560. For your convenience, most medications are available for next day delivery to any NOAH Health Center location. 

NOAH’s Holiday Meal Program Brings Families Together

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NOAH’s Palomino Health Center was filled with holiday cheer Saturday, December 14 as we handed out food boxes to patients as part of our Holiday Meal Program. Designed to support families facing significant challenges such as food insecurity, homelessness, or other life-changing hardships, this initiative helps ensure that selected NOAH patients and their families will enjoy a festive and nutritious holiday meal.  

With the help of Lyft, St. Mary’s Food Bank, and other generous community support we distributed a total of 100 meal boxes through this program, each carefully curated to feed a family of four. These packages included fresh fruits and vegetables, a carbohydrate, and a protein voucher for a turkey or ham, making it possible for families to prepare a balanced and delicious holiday meal.  

We were especially touched by the stories each family shared with us. Their courage highlights the real impact of programs like this, and we are honored to serve as a source of hope during this season.  

This wonderful event was made possible not only by our sponsors and donors but also by the dedicated volunteers who donated their time to assemble and distribute the meal boxes. Their enthusiasm and hard work truly reflect the spirit of giving, and we are grateful to have such an incredible team.

Lastly, thank you to everyone who participated, donated, or cheered us on from afar. Stronger together, we’re building a community that supports one another.  

Happy holidays from all of us at NOAH!  

If you are experiencing food insecurity, please contact NOAH Community Resources at 480-882-4545 or learn more here. We will have a limited supply of free food available on a first come, first served basis at our Cholla Health Center beginning at 1pm Tuesday, December 24.

Take Care of Your Mental Health This Holiday Season

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The holidays can bring joy, but it can also be a difficult time for many. It’s important to consider the impact the holidays may have on your mental health.

Many people find difficulties navigating the ups and downs of the season. This may be due to the loss of a loved one, inability to gather as a family, or financial difficulties among other things. All the while, they are planning, attending, and engaging in activities such as work parties and family gatherings. However, taking time to focus on the things you can do may help shift your focus.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

People face a lot of emotions during the holidays. This can be from not having family, having lost loved ones, living far away, or feeling overwhelmed by all the expectations and demands of the season. We should expect these feelings in ourselves and others.

Don’t avoid these feelings, recognize them. We can also expect these feelings to come in waves. The first wave will probably be the biggest, emotionally, and then it can become more manageable from there.

The important thing is to know yourself and expect some ups and downs. But the second most important thing to remember is that it’s best to embrace the feelings and work through them rather than trying to stop these feelings altogether.

Take Action

Knowing yourself is key to the entire process of mental and emotional health during the holidays and throughout the year. Try to understand your triggers – something that can make you feel sad, angry, overwhelmed – and be prepared.

The next step is to have coping skills, or actions you take to deal with the highs and lows. These skills will be a big part of working through things as they happen, even more so to help with holidays and mental health. Some coping skills can include:

  • Talking to someone
  • Making a list
  • Doing deep breathing exercises
  • Going for a walk
  • Or writing in a journal

Adjust your expectations for the season to fit your current reality. By letting go of perfection and embracing what’s possible, you may find new ways to experience the holidays.

It’s Okay to Feel Lonely

Loneliness is common during the holidays, but it doesn’t have to define your experience. 

Dealing with this can happen in a few ways.

  1. Throw out the idea of “should”: For example, don’t continually think or say “I should be able to be with my family” or “I should be going on a trip”. It’s fine, and even good, to mourn a lost holiday or celebration with people you care about, but then take those options out. Think about what you can do and focus on that this year.
  2. Change your expectations: This is a good rule any time of year. We set high expectations of ourselves and of the holidays, which can lead to disappointment. Re-think or lower your expectations to something more realistic.
  3. Use this opportunity to help others who may also be facing loneliness: Reaching out to someone else—whether it’s a neighbor, an isolated relative, or a friend—can create meaningful connections and help both of you feel supported. Small acts of kindness can have a big impact, especially during this season.

Know When to Ask for Help

We believe in prevention in healthcare, whether it is physical health or mental health. If holiday stress becomes overwhelming, or if you notice changes in mood, behavior, or interest in yourself or a loved one, it may be time to seek professional support. NOAH’s counselors and psychiatrists are here to help you navigate these challenges and improve your mental well-being.

Find Ways to Enjoy the Season

Now that we are ready to adjust our expectations, embrace the emotions of the season, and know what to expect, we can find new ways to celebrate the season safely for our mental health.

Make your plans – If you want to do a video call with multiple family members, make those arrangements. Remember that some people may not have reliable WiFi or be comfortable using certain technologies so plan accordingly. Making phone calls to loved ones and sending cards are ways to share the season with people you care about.

Remember to also be thankful and show gratitude, which is helpful to your mental and emotional health all year. Showing gratitude to your family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and even strangers can have a ripple effect. So, hold the door open, smile, give a compliment, or make small talk with the cashier, and you will brighten many people’s day in the process.

For additional help, request an appointment here. Our expert providers are ready to offer you the support and care you may need during this holiday season.

Online Scheduling Now Available!

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NOAH patients can now schedule medical appointments online using MyChart!

MyChart is your all-in-one tool for managing your healthcare. With MyChart, you can view test results, request prescription refills, securely message your healthcare team, and now, book appointments online.

Established NOAH patients with a MyChart account can log in to schedule their next visit quickly and easily. New patients may also qualify for online scheduling, depending on their insurance provider and the type of appointment they need.

How to Register

To get started, visit the MyChart patient portal or the ‘MyChart – Patient Portal‘ page on our website. You’ll find step-by-step videos, FAQs, and other helpful resources to guide you through the registration and scheduling process.

We’re thrilled to provide this new feature, giving patients a more convenient way to access quality care whenever they need it.

To book a non-medical appointment, request an appointment here.

Already on MyChart?

Click here to login in and schedule an appointment.