How do generic over-the-counter medicines measure up to the brand names?

Opting for generic over-the-counter medication can save you dollars per dose...

So how do they compare to the name brand relief? A recent survey had consumers take them both and here are the findings:

• Decongestants: Name brand cost - $5.49, generic - $3.99. Stuffed up customer gave the generic brand 4.1 stars and the name brand 3.8.

• Expectorant: Name brand $7.99, generic $6.48. Customers coughed up a score of 79 out of 100 for the name brand which was a little better than 74 out of 100 for the generic.

• Migraine relief: Name brand $11.85, generic $6.98. The general consensus was that that both worked, but the name brand worked faster.

• Antacid: Name brand $5.29, generic $4.20. These were equally effective but the name brand tasted better.