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MedlinePlus Genetics vs openFDA API

Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.

APIMedlinePlus GeneticsNEW—openFDA APINEW—
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms——
P95 · ms——
Authnonenone
CORSyesno
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseU.S. National Library of Medicine (see NLM terms)Unverified
Free tierFree — no key requiredFree — limits not published
Rate limitUnpublishedUnpublished
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

MedlinePlus Genetics vs openFDA API: common questions

Which is more reliable, MedlinePlus Genetics or openFDA API?

On our scheduled checks, openFDA API leads on measured uptime — MedlinePlus Genetics at —% versus openFDA API at —% over 90 days. These are our own probe results, not provider claims; the uptime bars above show the day-by-day record for both.

Do MedlinePlus Genetics and openFDA API need an API key?

Neither needs a paid key — MedlinePlus Genetics is callable with no signup, and openFDA API is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.

Can I call MedlinePlus Genetics and openFDA API from the browser?

Only MedlinePlus Genetics is browser-friendly — it returns CORS headers over HTTPS. openFDA API needs a server-side call or proxy, so factor that into which one fits a front-end project.

Are MedlinePlus Genetics and openFDA API free for commercial use?

MedlinePlus Genetics has unclear commercial terms, and openFDA API has unclear commercial terms. We track service terms and the data license as separate fields — see the Commercial use and Data license rows above, and confirm both before shipping either in a paid product.