When I began MAT, just over a year and a half ago, I was given Alvogen strips. A few months in, my Dr switched to name brand (no substitutions). I didn't notice a difference.

Until, last month. The pharmacy gave me Alvogen again for some reason. I went about my business, assuming they'd work just as well as the name brand. A couple weeks in, cravings came roaring back and all of the sudden, I didn't need laxatives. Both signs of a weaker medication.

I haven't experienced the numbness but I have seen the specks. I'm assuming that the medication isn't spread out over the strip as well as the name brand. Could be wrong, though. In comparison, I'm not a fan of Alvogen.