A genuine generic medicine will always show the salt name, manufacturer details, batch number, manufacturing date, expiry date, and a valid drug licence number on its pack. If any of these are missing, unclear, or the pack looks tampered with — do not buy it. Here is a step-by-step guide from our registered pharmacist at Scanda Enterprises, Moosapet, on exactly what to check every time.
With hundreds of generic medicines on the market and multiple manufacturers producing the same salt, it is natural to wonder: how do I know this is genuine and not a substandard or counterfeit product? The answer is on the label itself — if you know what to look for.
Why this matters more with generics
Generic medicines are safe when manufactured by a licensed facility and approved by India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. The risk is not from generics as a category — it is from substandard or counterfeit medicines sold through unlicensed channels. Knowing how to read a label protects you whether the medicine is branded or generic.
How to identify a genuine generic medicine: 5 steps
Step 1: Find the salt name (active ingredient)
Every medicine pack must display the generic name — the active ingredient or salt — prominently by law. On a generic, this is usually the largest text on the front of the pack (e.g. "Paracetamol 500 mg" or "Metformin 500 mg"). On a branded medicine, the brand name is largest and the salt name appears in smaller text below it. If you cannot find the salt name at all, treat that as a red flag.
Step 2: Check the manufacturer name and address
A genuine medicine — branded or generic — must display the name and full address of the manufacturer on the pack. In India, the manufacturer must hold a valid drug manufacturing licence. If the pack shows only a marketing company name with no manufacturer address, or if the address is incomplete or illegible, do not buy it.
Step 3: Verify the batch number, manufacturing date, and expiry date
These three must appear together on every pack. The batch number (Batch No. or B. No.) allows the medicine to be traced to a specific production run. The manufacturing date (Mfg.) and expiry date (Exp.) tell you the shelf life. Check that the expiry date has not passed, and that the manufacturing date is not suspiciously old. Never buy a medicine with these details missing, smudged, or printed over a sticker.
Step 4: Look for the drug licence number
The pack must carry the manufacturer's drug licence number, typically printed as "Mfg. Lic. No." followed by a code. This confirms the manufacturer is authorised to produce that medicine. In India, this number is issued by the State Drug Controller. If it is absent, the medicine may be from an unlicensed source.
Step 5: Check the pack and strip condition
Inspect the outer packaging for any signs of tampering — broken seals, resealed edges, or faded printing. Check the blister strip or bottle: tablets should not be crumbling, discoloured, or have an unusual smell. The colour and consistency of tablets within the same strip should be uniform. A genuine medicine from a quality manufacturer looks consistent and professional, even without a brand name.
Additional checks for Indian generic medicines
Schedule H or Schedule H1 notation: Prescription-only medicines in India must carry "Rx" or "Schedule H" / "Schedule H1" on the pack, indicating they should only be dispensed against a valid prescription. If a prescription medicine is being sold without this marking, that itself is a compliance issue.
Maximum Retail Price (MRP): Every medicine sold in India must display the MRP inclusive of all taxes. Generics are subject to price controls under the Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) for essential medicines. If a medicine is being sold above the printed MRP, that is illegal.
Pharmacopoeia standard: Better quality manufacturers will note the standard their product is tested to — IP (Indian Pharmacopoeia), BP (British Pharmacopoeia), or USP (US Pharmacopoeia). The Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) is the official quality standard for medicines manufactured and sold in India. Seeing "IP" after the salt name is a positive quality signal.
Quick reference checklist
| What to check | What genuine looks like | Red flag |
|---|---|---|
| Salt name | Clearly printed, prominent | Missing or illegible |
| Manufacturer name & address | Full name and address present | Only marketing company listed |
| Batch number | Printed, not stickered over | Missing or covered |
| Mfg. & Expiry date | Both present, not expired | Missing, smudged, or past date |
| Drug licence number | Mfg. Lic. No. present | Absent |
| MRP | Printed on pack | Missing or sold above MRP |
| Pack condition | Intact, consistent, professional | Tampered, resealed, faded |
| Tablet appearance | Uniform colour and shape | Crumbling, discoloured, odd smell |
The safest way to buy genuine generic medicines
Buy from a licensed, registered pharmacy — not from informal vendors, unverified online sellers, or roadside stalls. A registered pharmacy sources medicines only from licensed distributors who in turn source from licensed manufacturers. This chain of custody is the most reliable guarantee of a genuine product.
At Scanda Enterprises, our 2,200 sq ft pharmacy in Bhavani Nagar, Moosapet stocks generic medicines sourced exclusively through licensed distributors. Our registered pharmacist checks every product at the counter — you can always ask us to verify a medicine's label details before purchase. We are open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Walk in, or WhatsApp your query to 86880 60339 and we will help you verify before you buy.
Frequently asked questions
How do I identify a genuine generic medicine?
Check for: the salt name (active ingredient), manufacturer name and full address, batch number, manufacturing and expiry dates, drug licence number, and intact packaging. All of these are mandatory by law and must be clearly printed on every genuine medicine pack in India.
How do I tell the difference between a generic and a branded medicine?
A generic medicine leads with the salt name as the main text on the pack. A branded medicine leads with its brand name and shows the salt name in smaller text below. Both must carry identical mandatory information — batch number, dates, licence number, and MRP.
What is the salt name on a medicine?
The salt name is the active ingredient — the molecule that treats your condition. For example, "Paracetamol 500 mg" is the salt name; "Crocin" or "Dolo" are brand names for the same salt. Knowing the salt name lets you find and verify any generic equivalent.
Is it safe to buy generic medicines online?
Only from licensed online pharmacies that are registered with the state drug authority and require a valid prescription for Schedule H medicines. Avoid unverified platforms or social media sellers where the supply chain cannot be confirmed.
Where can I buy verified genuine generic medicines in Moosapet?
Scanda Enterprises, 234/D, Bhavani Nagar, Moosapet, Hyderabad, Telangana 500018 — open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Call 86880 60339 or 080087 20077, or WhatsApp us to verify any medicine before purchase.
This article is for general information and consumer awareness. It is not a substitute for advice from a registered pharmacist or doctor. If you are unsure about any medicine, always ask a licensed pharmacist before use.
