Generic drugs: Common-sense beliefs of the portuguese population

Abstract

Introduction: Generic medication is a recent reality in Portugal which brought important doubts to the general population related to its equivalency in efficacy. Other matters concerning health policy and budget associated to medication consumption are also in discussion. In our country there are no studies of populations beliefs about generic medication. The aim of this study is 1) to investigate common-sense belifs about medication and populations generic medication knowledge level; 2) to analyze the correlation between medication knowledge and beliefs and 3) to evaluate differences in generic medication common-sense beliefs and socio-demographic factors. Methods: A sample of 1110 individuals of both genders and over 16 years of age was studied. We collected information about common-sense beliefs in medication, knowledge level and socio-demographic aspects. The Belief about Medicines Questionnaire was used. Results: Participants have moderate beliefs about secondary effects of medications and about the excessive use and prescription. There is a stronger belief in the efficacy and similarity of generic medication. We found significant correlation between beliefs about generic and non-generic medication. The knowledge level on generic medication is considered satisfactory. We found no differences in beliefs between genders but there are significant differences with age and educational level. Discussion: This study brings new information related to the importance of populations beliefs about the use of medication and its potential influence in adherence to therapeutic regimens.