Experience Of Consumers Regarding The Usage Of Generic Medicines – A Study With Respect To Price, Efficacy, Safety And Easy Availability

Abstract

Background- Generic medicines are low-cost alternatives to the branded medicines. The quality of generic medicines has always been the point of concern to all consumers, physicians and pharmacists. This study is conducted to understand the experience of Consumers regarding the usage of Generic Medicines particularly with respect to the Price, Efficacy and Safety of Generic Medicines. This will help us to understand the factors if worked upon can lead to enhanced growth in consumption of generic medicines.

Methods- Exploratory research method was used to analyse the data . Sample frame: People of Nagpur City

Results- Out of the total sample of 284 consumers, 80.28% of the population prefer to use generic medicines or have used generic medicines.

Out of the consumers who use or have used Generic Medicines, 89.47% consumers have experienced that the generic medicines are substantially of low pricing than that of branded generics, 80.70% consumers have experienced that the generic medicines are as safe as branded generics and 79.82% consumers have experienced that the generic medicines are as effective as branded generics.

Out of the 20% population who have never used generic medicines, majority of them perceive that branded medicines are more effective and costlier medicines are of good quality. Hence, the quality is the dominating factor behind the decision of not choosing generic medicines.

Conclusion-  It is evident from the result that 80% i.e. the majority of consumers use or have used generic medicines. The major factors that drive the usage of generic medicines amongst consumers are low price, safety and efficacy of generic medicines.