Evaluation of patient’s knowledge and perceptions regarding generic medicines – pilot study in Saragossa (Spain)

Objective The aim is to review the actual knowledge and perception of generic medicines in Spain to see if more training and information for the patients is necessary. Method Self-administered questionnaires were used to survey the patient’s knowledge and perceptions of generic medicines. The questionnaires were built with an expert panel. The pilot was conducted in Saragossa province (Spain). Results Patients with a low educational level and those older than 51 years had a worse attitude to generics regarding their equivalence, quality and efficacy. Also showed the general non-acceptance of the substitution policy switching from branded to generic medicines. Conclusions More educational actions and campaigns directed to patients were shown to be necessary in order to improve the knowledge of generic drugs, specially focused on groups with negative perceptions. Practice implications Educational activities, direct and individual about security and efficacy of generic medicines increase its acceptance and appreciation. Health professionals (doctors, pharmacists and nurses) are the ones in the best position to develop this educational work. There is a need of a bigger effort in the country on generics information, especially in the group of older than 50 years old and in the lower education group.