E-DRUG: Use of generic or brand names in prescriptions (6)
-----------------------------------------------
Generic medicine policies of the developing countries reflects disparity in terms of effective execution
Although a tailor-made regulatory framework in some developing countries to galvanize the registration procedure for generics along with a minimal amount of registration fee is evident, the flunking of any generic medicine policy is in fact interplay of many composite factors.
Discredited status of generics in the eyes of prescriber makes them as scarce as hens teeth in prescription. The image of generic drugs whether in the eyes of prescriber or dispenser is built on negative preconceived notions about their efficacy and safety thus owing to deficient or expensive infrastructure facilities which demonstrates their quality.
Even in certain instances consumer being aware of generic medicines preferably opts for brand drugs considering them to be more potent, safe and efficacious as compared to their generic counterparts.
In developing countries with changing dynamics of economies consumers although procuring medicines on sheer out-of-pocket basis are not deterred to pick out high-priced innovator brands.
Generic penetration varies in the developing world and the sale of generics are growing in all the major markets but the proper domestic availability of quality generics and quality use is still a question mark.
The National Health Policy of India (2002) emphasizes the need for the use of generic drugs as a prerequisite for cost-effective public health care but the availability in the public sector is still not proper.
Innovator products were priced 90% higher than the lowest price generics in Pakistan. The National Drug Policy has failed to achieve its public health objectives; although clearly highlighting proper use of generics. In the past generics have been knocked down due to perceived flaws such as quality, safety and efficacy.
In developing countries just and upright health system can only be acquired through groundbreaking measures. Brazil is one such example. Brazil exhibits tenacious commitment to public health issues. Brazilians successfully retained this steadfast fixity of purpose of defending their health system despite all odds. In 1999 Brazil instituted its generic medicine policy and therefore generics instantaneously gripped the Brazilian pharmaceutical market. Promulgation of the legislation and sensitization of the public by means of mass media coverage as well as active participation of the government were underlying components of its success. Thus Brazilians purchase medicines at more affordable prices.
Why can't Brazil be a model in terms of access and affordability of medicines in Indo-Pakistan subcontinent?
Shazia Jamshed
PhD Scholar
Social and Administrative Pharmacy
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Penang
Malaysia
shazia jamshed <shazia_12@yahoo.com>