A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Sumadan (for the skin) is a combination antibiotic medicine that is used to treat acne, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis (a red, flaking skin rash). Sumadan may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using only the medicine your doctor prescribes. Wash your hands before and after applying this medication. Do not cover the treated skin area unless your doctor has told you to. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.
Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling). Stop using Sumadan and all your doctor at once if you have new or worsening skin rash. Common side effects of Sumadan may include: redness, warmth, swelling, itching, stinging, burning, or irritation of treated skin. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.