Bridging knowledge gaps and misconceptions: Public perceptions of generic medicines in South Korea – A nationwide cross-sectional survey

Background

The use of generic medicines is increasing globally; however, few studies have examined public understanding and perceptions of generics in South Korea to date.

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the perceptions, knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of the general public regarding generic medicines, as well as to identify the main factors associated with their attitudes.

Methods

A nationally representative, web-based survey of people across South Korea aged between 20 and 65 years was conducted in January 2025. The questionnaire consisted of 4 sections, including 33 closed-ended and 2 open-ended questions. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were employed to compare groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with attitudes toward generics. Statistical analyses were performed using R, version 4.4.3 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing).

Results

A total of 3000 people were included (50.0% female; mean [SD] age, 45.3 [11.7] years) in this study. While all participants reported being familiar with the term “generic medicine,” 40.3% demonstrated a low level of knowledge about it. The majority of survey participants (73.7%) expressed positive attitudes toward generic medicines; however, they continued to report concerns about their efficacy, safety, and quality. A statistically significant difference in the attitudes towards generic medicines was observed based on sex (P = 0.007), age (P < 0.001), insurance type (P = 0.002), information source (P = 0.009), and knowledge level (P < 0.001). Results from the multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that both knowledge of generic medicines (adjusted OR = 2.11, 95% CI; 1.781-2.500) and age (adjusted OR = 1.01, 95% CI; 1.003–1.017) were significantly associated with positive attitudes toward their use. Providing adequate information and public education about generic medicines was recommended by 40.2% of participants to promote generic substitution. Furthermore, 80% of the participants expressed a high degree of trust in pharmacists regarding generic substitution.

Conclusion

Participants with higher levels of knowledge were more likely to hold positive attitudes toward generic medicines; therefore, providing accurate and accessible information is essential to enhance patient acceptance. Furthermore, pharmacists may serve a pivotal role in promoting generic substitution.