What is the guideline regarding generic drugs if they are determined not to be safely interchangeable?

When generic drugs are determined not to be safely interchangeable, the guideline that states they should be dispensed as a brand is based on the need to ensure patient safety and therapeutic effectiveness. If a generic version of a medication is not considered to be equivalent to the brand-name drug in terms of efficacy and safety, it is crucial that the original brand product be provided to the patient. This helps prevent potential adverse effects or treatment failures that could arise from substituting a non-interchangeable generic.

In situations where a drug is identified as not interchangeable, merely discussing substitution with the patient, informing the prescriber, or outright prohibiting substitution does not adequately address the need to provide the most appropriate and safe medication for the patient's condition. Therefore, the practice of dispensing the brand-name product ensures that the patient receives the medication that has been deemed effective and safe by regulatory bodies.