Knowledge and Perception of Undergraduate Students about Generic Drugs and Their Attitude towards Generic Substitution in Karachi, Pakistan

Generic substitution has become a common practice. In Pakistan living standards are below average. Improving knowledge and perception about generic drugs will increase the generic substitution, and it will reduce cost of treatment. The aim of study was to determine the knowledge, perception and attitude of undergraduate students of Pakistan about generic drugs. A questionnaire comprising of questions regarding knowledge and perception about generic drugs and attitude towards generic substitution was distributed to 100 students. Mostly students knew about generic drugs and difference between generic and brand names. Their idea about cost of generic drugs wasn’t correct. Mostly students prefer doctor’s advice while buying or changing their brand. Students substituting their brand didn’t find any difference in efficacy of both drugs. Overall good knowledge and perception about generic drugs was found, and mostly students showed positive attitude towards drug substitution. However, few required additional information.