Consumers are being urged to check the product licence (PL) code on medication packaging to avoid overpaying for branded drugs. A money-saving tip shared on social media reveals that identical medicines can be sold at vastly different prices under different brands.
In a video filmed inside a Boots pharmacy, money-saving expert Claire demonstrated that Sudafed Congestion & Headache Relief capsules cost £5.99, but Boots' own Max Strength Cold & Flu Relief capsules, priced at £2.40, share the same PL code (PL 12063/0073), meaning they are the exact same product.
Claire further highlighted that even greater savings can be found at discount retailers. She found the same medication at Savers for just £1.19 for 16 capsules, five times cheaper than the Sudafed version. “Don't fall for fancy branding,” she advised, “always check the PL code to save yourself a lot of money.”
Money Saving Expert supports this guidance, explaining that the PL number is a unique licence for a specific drug from a particular manufacturer. If PL numbers match, the medicines are identical, even if packaging differs. However, they caution that some medicines with the same formulation may have different PL numbers if licensed under multiple product names.
Viewers thanked Claire for the tip, with one commenting that their pharmacist always sells them the generic product, saving them money. Always consult a pharmacist or medical professional with any medication queries.
