The dispositions that regulate generic substitution in Switzerland have been recently revised, and impose definite incentives on prescribers. The benefits and drawbacks associated with the prescription of generic drugs are reviewed, considering the viewpoints of patients, practitioners and third party payers. While the initial prescription of a generic drug raises no specific concerns, the generic switch during long-term treatment may require some caution. The advantages of using International Nonproprietary Names (INN) for drug prescription are discussed. A renewal of prescription habits would be welcomed however several practical issues would have to find rational solutions.