Publication:

A cross-sectional study on knowledge, attitudes, practices and barriers regarding generic medicines and Jan Aushadhi initiatives among healthcare professionals and students in Hyderabad, India

Background Generic medicines are therapeutically equivalent to branded medicines and are promoted through government programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) to reduce the economic burden of healthcare. However, misconceptions and concerns regarding their efficacy and acceptance may limit their use. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers regarding generic medicines and Jan Aushadhi initiatives among healthcare professionals and students in Hyderabad, India.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 healthcare professionals and healthcare students in Hyderabad using a pre-validated structured questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceived barriers related to generic medicines and Jan Aushadhi initiatives.

Results Participants demonstrated reasonable awareness of generic medicines and PMBJP; however, preference for branded medicines remained high among both healthcare professionals and patients. A major barrier was the perception that lower-cost medicines are less effective than branded medicines. Concerns regarding the availability and acceptance of generic medicines also contributed to their limited use.

Conclusions Despite reasonable awareness, preference for branded medicines and misconceptions regarding the efficacy of lower-cost medicines remain important barriers to the wider use of generic medicines. Targeted educational and awareness programmes are needed to address misconceptions, improve confidence in generic medicines, and promote the rational use of cost-effective medicines.