Generic drugs should be prescribed whenever possible. FDA-approved generic drugs are on the formulary, even if they are not listed. The majority of Blue Shield plans include a lower copayment for generic drugs compared to brand name drugs. Generic drugs must meet the following criteria to be included in the formulary:
- They must contain the same active ingredient as the brand name drug.
- They must be considered to be therapeutically equivalent by the Food and Drug Administration to the brand name drug.