Generic Drugs Under the Microscope

Health

Generic Drugs Under the Microscope

What's going on: You’ve probably saved money at the pharmacy by taking a generic instead of a brand-name drug — sometimes without anyone asking. That swap usually feels like a no-brainer, since generics often cost 80% to 85% less. But a new ProPublica investigation raises questions about whether cheaper always gets you an equivalent. The outlet tested generic versions of three common drugs — an antidepressant, a heart drug, and a cholesterol medication. It found irregularities in one sample apiece of two drugs that could compromise effectiveness. ProPublica says the findings point to a major gap in oversight. Generics copy long-established drugs, so the FDA does not routinely test them for quality and effectiveness the way it tests brand-name medications. Instead, it largely leaves that to the drugmakers, which are often located overseas. The FDA didn’t respond to ProPublica’s requests for comment.

What it means: Generics account for about 90% of prescriptions in the US. But experts told ProPublica that many doctors dismiss concerns from patients who take them, too often blaming bad luck or underlying conditions instead of questioning whether the medication works as intended. If you have concerns, ask your doctor to specify a particular manufacturer on your prescription. You can also push back if the pharmacy substitutes a generic — though you may notice the difference on your bill. ProPublica also maintains a database that shows where generic drugs are made, which can help you understand what you’re taking. And remember, most generic drugs are safe and effective. Still, if a medication doesn’t seem to work as expected, it’s reasonable to ask questions — and to follow up with your doctor.

Related: These Americans Are Quitting Weight-Loss Drugs at High Rates (NYT Gift Link)

The News in 5

🗞️ CBS faces growing backlash after pulling a 60 Minutes piece on the Trump administration’s immigration tactics.

🗞️ President Donald Trump is taking on wind farms, unofficially denting the industry. 

🗞️ Is Instacart finally throwing out this questionable pricing practice? Good riddance. 

🗞️ Democrats’ 2028 strategy is one that Cher and Dionne would be all over.

🗞️ Barry Manilow revealed a heartbreaking diagnosis.

Care

Passing Down More Than Just Stuff

What’s going on: The wake-up call often comes the same way: a forgotten account password, a mystery safety-deposit box (and the hunt for its key), or decades of paperwork left to untangle. Many baby boomers and Gen Xers now want to spare their kids of that mess, according to The Washington Post. They’re talking more openly with their children about long-term care, finances, cognitive decline, and even when to stop driving — conversations many once avoided. The shift follows years of caregiving strain. A survey by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving shows nearly half of family caregivers have faced at least one financial hardship. “I’m trying to set myself up to be less of a burden to my daughter,” one woman told the Post.

What it means: This story can help start the unglamorous but necessary conversations, whether you’re an adult looking to help a child or you have aging parents. Pull key information into one place before a crisis turns it into a scavenger hunt: account lists, passwords, insurance details, doctors, medications, and legal documents. You can start a simple caregiving binder to keep things organized (consider this helpful checklist to get started). An eldercare lawyer can help you think through the next steps. Ask friends for recommendations, do some research, and come prepared with questions before you hire anyone. If it feels difficult to address these issues, remember a head start can help before the pressure’s dialed up.

Related: As Flu Hits Kids Hard, Here’s What To Know (NBC News)

Work

The Workplace Is Still Going Through Growing Pains

What’s going on: As much as we may dream about leaving our jobs, work isn’t disappearing — it’s morphing. Since the pandemic, remote and hybrid jobs have stuck around (for the most part), managers now talk openly about mental health, and work-life balance is a smidge better for some. But experts told The Wall Street Journal this might only be a warm-up. Over the next few years, artificial intelligence will weave itself into a staggering number of jobs, handling everything from entry-level work to performance tracking. Companies can expect flatter org charts, fewer middle managers, and more contract and gig work. And it’s not just AI. With longer careers, five generations sharing offices, and fewer employees overall, it’s clear the workplace is under permanent renovation. Can we get to 2026 first?

What it means: Knowing how to use — and more importantly, leverage — AI can make or break careers. That doesn’t mean the winners are the best chatbot prompters. Companies are already looking for people who can connect dots across teams, make judgment calls, and solve messy problems — skills AI still can’t replicate. As middle layers disappear, employees who stand out will be able to adapt quickly, communicate clearly, and handle multiple tasks at a time. The upside: More employers may invest in on-the-job training and care less about resumes. The downside: Flexibility cuts both ways, and you’ll need firmer boundaries to avoid burnout. Generalists, this may be your moment. As for personality hires, someone should check in on them. 

Related: The Internet’s Latest Debate: $120K to WFH or $240K at an Office? (Today)

On Our Calendar

A few things to jot down today…

🗓️ Are you ready for… Festivus? Time to air those grievances and conduct feats of strength.

🗓️ Finally, we can stream Eden, with Jude Law and Ana de Armas. 

🗓️ It’s National Christmas Movie Marathon Day, and we’ll be queuing up our faves. Keep the change, ya filthy animal.

Psst…For more dates worth knowing this week, check out the Skimm+ calendar.

Know It All

Travelers helped rank the best airlines. Which one came out on top?

Game Time

Start your Tuesday off right with Typeshift, a fun new game that challenges you to create words from a set number of letters. Warning: It’s very addicting. Start playing.