Author(s)
Tushar Dinkar sonawane , Mr. Mobeen Shaikh Ashfaque Manyar, Pawan Dnyaneshwar Patil , Dhiraj Vilas Mistari
- Manuscript ID: 140430
- Volume: 2
- Issue: 6
- Pages: 1282–1297
Subject Area: Other
Abstract
Generic medicines play an important role in reducing healthcare costs and improving access to treatment. However, the use of generic medicines is often influenced by public perception, awareness, and trust. The present study was conducted to compare generic and branded medicines in the Chalisgaon region with respect to awareness, preference, cost perception, and acceptance among the public. A cross-sectional survey was carried out using a structured questionnaire distributed through online and offline methods. A total of 66 participants responded to the survey. The results showed that 84.8% of respondents had heard about generic medicines, while 56.1% believed that generic and branded medicines have the same therapeutic effect. Around 51.5% preferred medicines based on doctor recommendation, whereas 28.8% preferred branded medicines and 19.7% preferred generic medicines. Furthermore, 68.2% of participants were willing to switch to generic medicines if recommended by a doctor. The findings indicate that awareness regarding generic medicines is fairly good, but misconceptions and trust issues still exist. Doctor recommendation was found to be a major factor influencing medicine choice. Increased awareness programs and active promotion by healthcare professionals may improve the acceptance and use of generic medicines.