Patient perception about generic and branded medicine at a tertiary centre in Bihar

Abstract

Background: The branded medicines are a bit costlier than the generic ones and hence enhanced usage of generic medicines would reduce the costs without sacrificing the quality of the medicines. The present study was conducted to assess patient perception about generic versus branded medicine. Aim and Objectives: The present study was conducted to compare the perception of patient about generic and branded medicine.

Materials & Methods: 140 patients of both genders were provided with a questionnaire about knowledge about difference between generic and branded medicines, attitude for buying generic medicines over branded medicines and practice of taking generic medicines.

Results: Out of 140 patients, 80 were male and 60 were female. 75% have heard about generic medicine, 65% knew there a difference in the quality of generic medicine and branded variant, 60% knew that there a difference in the price of generic and branded medicines, the type of medicines doctors prefer to prescribe was generic medicines in 28% and branded medicines in 72%, the drug chemist prefer to sell was generic medicines in 24% and branded medicines in 76%, generic medicines in 80% and branded medicines in 20% were prescribed in this hospital, Indian government promote generic medicines in 42% and branded medicines in 58%, 34% were aware of any government rules regarding generic or branded medicines. 62% knew that there is price difference between generic and branded medicine, 63% prefer buying generic medicines over branded medicines, 30% have ever asked their doctor to prescribe generic medicines, 32% have asked chemists to give generic medicines in place of branded medicines. The difference was significant (P< 0.05).

Conclusion: Subjects had poor knowledge and attitude about generic medicines.