The Perception of Pharmacists and Physicians about Generic Drugs on Drug Price Lists in Trinidad

Objective: To determine the perception and concerns physicians and pharmacists have about generic drugs on three annual drug price lists in Trinidad. Method: Windows((R)) Excel 2007 and Minitab((R)) version 17 examined the price lists and a self-administered questionnaire was used to perform a non-randomized, cross-sectional study with a convenient sampling of physicians and pharmacists after obtaining written consent. Results: Physicians (78.6%) and pharmacists (87.1%) agreed and strongly agreed respectively that there are medical conditions for which brand name drugs are preferred including cardiovascular conditions and diabetes; which were comprised in the five major medication categories on the national drug price lists. Overall, physicians and pharmacists showed a 'Good' to 'Excellent' perception of generic drugs but had some safety and efficacy concerns. Lack of reporting of adverse drug reactions and quality issues by health professionals was also observed. Conclusion: Education and communication among patients, physicians and pharmacists can improve the perception of generic drugs; hence, increase confidence in prescribing, dispensing and patient management.