Generics contain the same active ingredient as more info the original brands and usually cost much less. That is why many patients now choose to buy medicine online, from eye drops such as bimatoprost to weight loss capsules such as orlistat. A little care goes a long way.

Step one: a valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine. A sensible supplier will always ask to see it. Be wary of any website that skips this step.

Look closely at the product: the active ingredient, the strength and the pack size should be clearly listed. Generic packs often look different from the brand you know, and that is expected.

For a step-by-step checklist, see this plain-English guide walks through each step.

A few examples: bimatoprost eye drops are used once a day in the evening, and you should wait five minutes between different drops. Orlistat 120 mg is taken with meals that contain fat and works best with a reduced-fat diet, plus a multivitamin at bedtime.

On delivery, check the name, strength and expiry date and keep the leaflet. Tell your doctor which product you are taking.

More tips are in this article.

This is general information, not medical advice. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medicine.