Pharmaceutical Research and Therapeutic Sciences

ABSTRACT

Background

Generic medicines provide a lower-cost alternative to branded medicines and can improve access to treatment. Pharmacists have an important role in providing information about generic medicines and supporting their appropriate use. However, concerns about quality, efficacy, safety, therapeutic equivalence, and patient acceptance may influence their use.

Objective

To assess the knowledge and perceptions of hospital pharmacists in Punjab regarding generic medicines and to examine selected factors associated with their views and willingness to recommend generic medicines.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among registered hospital pharmacists in Punjab. Data were collected using a structured close-ended questionnaire in Urdu and English covering demographic characteristics, knowledge, and perceptions/practices related to generic medicines. Sixty completed questionnaires were included in the final analysis. Data were entered into SPSS version 22 and descriptive analysis was performed.

Results

Among the 60 respondents, 31 (51.7%) were female and 29 (48.3%) were male. Most respondents were aged 25–35 years and many had 1–5 years of professional experience. The study reported generally favorable knowledge and perceptions of generic medicines. Seventy-five percent of respondents strongly agreed with recommending generic medicines. Higher support was reported among younger pharmacists and pharmacists with a Pharm.D. qualification. Concerns regarding therapeutic equivalence, patient trust, and preference for branded medicines were also reported.

Conclusion

Hospital pharmacists participating in this study generally showed favorable views toward generic medicines. However, concerns about therapeutic equivalence and patient acceptance remain. Continuing professional education and effective patient counseling may help address these concerns.

Keywords: Generic Medicines; Hospital Pharmacists; Knowledge and Perceptions; Therapeutic Equivalence; Bioequivalence; Generic Substitution; Patient Acceptance; Pharmacy Practice