Is there a generic version?
je-NE-ri-ko — stress on second syllable. 'C'è' = there is/do you have.
Ask for the generic (equivalente) version of a branded medication. In Italy, pharmacists can substitute branded drugs with generics unless the doctor specifies otherwise.
'C'è il generico?' is literally 'Is there the generic?' The full term is 'farmaco equivalente' or 'medicinale generico'. In Italy, pharmacists can propose generic substitution ('sostituzione con equivalente') unless the doctor writes 'non sostituibile' on the prescription. Generics contain the same active ingredient at the same dose.
Quanto costa il generico rispetto al branded?
How much does the generic cost compared to the branded?
Generics are typically 30-70% cheaper in Italy
Il medico ha scritto non sostituibile.
The doctor wrote non-substitutable.
When the doctor insists on the brand — pharmacist must dispense that brand
Va bene il generico, mi faccia risparmiare.
The generic is fine, help me save money.
Explicitly agree to generic substitution
Italy was slow to adopt generic medications but has made major progress since 2001 legislation. The AIFA (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco) regulates and approves generics. Italian SSN reimburses up to the price of the cheapest generic — if you choose a more expensive branded version, you pay the difference. Many Italian patients still prefer branded drugs due to brand loyalty habits.