FWIW -- and again body chemistry and tolerance and "X factors" enter into the equation -- I found the Mals to usually be worthless, occasionally of adequate quality. I will never accept them as a generic again -- the quality is too erratic. I probably would also pass on Vintage or Able brands which were mediocre to poor, IMO.
The binders and fillers have something to do with it, as many have stated, but I contend that these aforementioned med-makers somehow skimp on the "active" ingredient or, at best, have careless quality control. I once was 'scripted a batch of Mals that I would swear contained absolutely NO HYDROCODONE. If you're wondering, no, I didn't have a tolerance at the time.
When I opted for the brand-name Vicodin a time or two, as experiments or "tests" more than anything else, I found them to be superior in all regards. Or did I? I realize that this may have been wishful thinking or the power of suggestion; in my imagination, in other words, a sort of placebo effect.
The Watsons are fine and probably one's best bet all in all. (As we know, the brand name is priced outrageously higher, a factor you'll really notice if you're uninsured.)
Feel good, people.