THE INSIGHTS OF INDIANS ON BRANDED AND GENERIC DRUGS: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/ijpps.2026v18i7.57653Keywords:
Generic medicines, Branded medicines, Public awareness, Drug utilisation, Multivitamin tabletsAbstract
Objective: This study investigates public awareness and utilization of generic and branded medicines, focusing on allopathic drugs and multivitamin tablets.
Methods: An observational survey was conducted using a questionnaire-based design. The research was conducted in two distinct settings: a medical camp organised by SWECHA Software Campus and generic/retail pharmacy stores in an urban area. The time period over which the data was collected is 6 months. The aim was to collect data from 100 participants. However, the final sample size was 85, and after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 50 participants were selected. The study comprised two main components: assessing general awareness of generic and branded drugs through a survey at a medical camp, and evaluating the utilisation of generic and branded multivitamin tablets among pharmacy visitors. Questionnaires collected sociodemographic data and responses about knowledge, attitudes, and usage patterns.
Results: The key findings of the study was more awareness is needed among the people regarding the branded and generic drug utilisation. The results indicated a generally significant level of awareness among participants. However, understanding and acceptance of generic drugs needs time, highlighting the need for enhanced public education. A significant portion of the population buys generic drugs due to cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion: The study highlights the need for greater public education to promote the use of affordable generic medicines and ensure rational drug prescribing.
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