Generic medicines: perceptions of consumers in Melbourne, Australia

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Abstract
Objective: The objective of this study was to explore consumers' perceptions and opinions of generic medicines and to identify barriers to their use of generic medicines.Method: A qualitative approach was used. A purposive sample of consumers, aged 22–80 years, living in the Melbourne, Australia, metropolitan area were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide.Key findings: Sixteen consumers were interviewed. Thematic content analysis of the interviews identified four major themes: knowledge about generic medicines, acceptance of generics, non-acceptance of generics, and education needs pertaining to generic medicine use. In terms of knowledge, some consumers were not familiar with the term ‘generic medicines’, but were more familiar with the term ‘cheaper brand of medicine’. The major reason for acceptance of generic medicines among the consumers interviewed was cost. Positive encouragement from the healthcare providers was seen to influence generic medicine uptake by consumers. The major barriers to acceptance included influence from medical practitioners, side-effects from generic brands, and confusion that may arise from using different brands. To encourage future uptake of generics by consumers, some of the respondents recommended that education strategies be implemented by healthcare practitioners and governmental agencies to educate people on the safety and efficacy of generic medicines.Conclusions: This study indicated that consumers interviewed generally had positive attitudes towards the use of generic medicines. The findings also suggest that direct patient education by the healthcare providers on issues relating to safety and efficacy of generic medicines could further enhance their uptake.

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