Jan Aushadhi Scheme Research Articles

A pharmacoeconomic study on Jan Aushadhi generics versus branded pharmaceutical formulations in India

Background: Healthcare costs are a major burden on the society of developing countries like India. Countries like India try to limit healthcare costs in support of generic medicine. So, the Indian government initiated the Jan Aushadhi scheme in 2008 to provide high-quality generic medication at a low cost. Aim: The aim of the study was to compare the cost difference between Jan Aushadhi generic pharmaceutical formulations and branded medications in Tamil Nadu. Settings and Design: Pharmaco economic - Cost minimization observational study. Methods and Material: Study Duration: Five months, from February 2023 to June 2023. Study Place: 10 Jan Aushadhi outlets from various districts of Tamil Nadu. Sampling technique: Convenience sampling technique Statistical analysis used: Mean median, mode and Percentage. Results: A total of 729 medications were available in 10 Jan Aushadhi outlets. The Jan Aushadhi outlet has the most cardiovascular medications and the fewest antimalarial medications among different categories of drugs. Erythropoietin has the biggest cost difference between the average cost of branded medications and Jan Aushadhi drug costs, while Digoxin has the lowest cost difference. Antitubercular drugs, Oxytocics, Antileprosy drugs, Antiparkinsonism categories of drugs also delisted in Jan Aushadhi outlet. Conclusions: Compared to branded drugs, Jan Aushadhi's generic drugs are 64.65 % less costly on an average as observed in our study. The manufacturer of Jan Aushadhi shops is a WHO and GMO-certified company, and they manufacture branded drugs. So, there will be no quality compromise in Jan Aushadhi’s generic drugs.

A study on the price variability of branded medicines and Jan aushadi versions of selected commonly prescribed psychiatric medications in India using a cost-comparative approach and a passive evaluation of the Jan aushadhi scheme in India.

The cost of medications poses a significant financial burden on patients. It limits access and adherence to treatment. Psychiatric disease burden is rising and it needs treatment for long durations. The high cost of branded medicines and lack of access to medicines at affordable prices can limit adherence. A cost comparison study was done to investigate the price difference between branded and Jan aushadhi versions of 20 selected psychiatric drugs was done at the Department of Community Medicine of a Government medical college in Southern India. The average (mean) price of branded medicines of each drug was calculated with minimum, and maximum using online data, and comparison was done by calculating the percentage price difference between branded and Jan aushadhi medicines. The overall percentage price difference between branded and Jan aushadhi medicines was calculated. The overall percentage price difference between the mean price of branded medicine and Jan aushadhi medicine was + 252% for antipsychotics, indicating that the mean branded price was 252% (2.52 times) Jan aushadhi price. Similarly, the overall percentage price difference between the mean branded price and Jan aushadhi price among antidepressants was +277.54%, and the overall percentage price difference between mean branded price and Jan aushadhi was +227.73% for anticonvulsants. Similarly, price differences of maximum and minimum branded prices and Jan aushadhi were high. The study was able to estimate variation in the price of branded drugs and compare the price of branded medicines with Jan aushadhi by estimating price differences. The results of the study are useful in further reference regarding the subject for public, policy makers and healthcare providers. It gives valuable evidence into medication costs in India.

Perceived Utility of Jan Aushadhi Outlets and Awareness of Generic Medicines at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Despite being the leading exporter of generic medicines to the world, affordable medicines are still beyond the reach of most patients in India.Analysis of the National Sample Survey data showed that in one year, more than 55 million Indians became poor only because they had to spend their own money to purchase medicines. The Jan Aushadhi Scheme launched by the Government of India is an ambitious step to make quality generic drugs affordable to the common man of the country. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perceptions of patients at a tertiary care teaching hospital in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands about Jan Aushadhi Kendras and generic medicines. The study was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study. A prevalidated self-made questionnaire was distributed to 200 patients visiting the OPD of different clinical departments in the hospital. Participants' knowledge, attitude, and perception of Jan Aushadhi Kendras and generic medicines were evaluated. Analysis of collected data was done using descriptive statistical measures such as mean and percentages. It was found that most of the participants were not fully aware of the Jan Aushadhi Scheme and the facts about generic medicines. The majority of the participants were under the notion that generics were not similar in quality to the branded ones. The study observed that the patients had a very poor understanding of the Jan Aushadhi Scheme and generic medicines with the majority being ignorant and having incorrect information. To fill this gap, a more proactive approach by the healthcare workers and authorities is needed to disseminate the scheme-related facts, dispel the myths regarding generics, and accept the program wholeheartedly by the common man.

A Study to Assess The Knowledge and Practice of Healthcare Workers and The General Public About Generic and Branded Medicine In Bengaluru

Background A generic drug is a pharmaceutical drug that contains the same chemical substance as a drug that was originally protected by chemical patents. The Indian government launched a project called the Jan Aushadhi Scheme to provide low-income people with unbranded quality medicines at affordable prices.Objective The study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of healthcare workers and the general public about generic and branded drugs.Methodology It was a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study done with 150 respondents each from the general public and healthcare workers using a convenience sampling method.Results Among healthcare workers 52 had moderate and 48 had good knowledge and practice of generic medicines. Among the general public 65.3 had moderate and 34.7 had good knowledge of generic medicine and 30 had moderate and 70 had good practice. The study revealed that the age group 20-29 years had greater knowledge and participants with higher-level education had greater belief in the efficacy of generic medicine. The maximum 52 of the general public had agreed that if the doctor prescribes generic medicine then they will use generic medicine.Conclusion The study revealed that healthcare workers had more knowledge about generic medicine than the general public and the general public had better practice of generic medicine than healthcare workers. The study revealed that men were more knowledgeable about generic medicines than women among the general public.

A hybrid framework to model resilience in the generic medicine supply chain of MSMEs

PurposeOne of the most important components of healthcare is the timely delivery of pharmaceutical products, such as life-saving medicines. However, disruptions like COVID-19 bring new challenges and risks to the pharmaceutical supply chain (PSC) and healthcare organizations that impact their operational performance. This study focuses on mitigating risks in India's generic medicine supply chain (GMSC) as a result of various disruptions, which can assist policymakers develop appropriate plans and strategies to build resilience in the Jan Aushadhi Scheme (JAS) of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in order to improve their overall performance.Design/methodology/approachRisk-causing vulnerabilities and resilience capabilities are identified from the literature review and expert's opinions. Following that, the vulnerabilities are classified into cause-and-effect vulnerabilities, and supply chain resilient capabilities (SCRCs) are measured using a hybrid fuzzy DEMATEL and best worst method (FDEMATEL-BMW) framework.FindingsThe outcome of the study reveals that transportation breakdown, loss of human resources and loss of suppliers are the potential risk-causing vulnerabilities that lead to vulnerabilities like shortages of medicines, loss of in-hand stock qualities and loss of sales/revenue. In addition, the analysis suggests that the sustainability of an organization with maximum weightage is the critical factor for building resilience in GMSC followed by flexibility, agility and visibility.Practical implicationsThe integration of resilience into Jan Aushadhi GMSC can help in managing disruptions efficiently and effectively to mitigate risk and optimize MSMEs overall performance.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work will be the first of its kind to model resilience in GMSC of MSMEs using a hybrid framework.

Cost Variation Study of Various Brands of Oral Fluoroquinolones Available in India: An Economic Perspective

Fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum antibacterial for treating respiratory tract, intra-abdominal, urinary tract, pelvic, joint, bone, soft tissue, and skin infections. The economic burden on patients affects compliance in developing countries like India. Therefore, the prices of drugs should be controlled effectively. Hence, this study was done to assess the cost variation of branded oral fluoroquinolones available in India compared with generic counterparts. The maximum and minimum cost of oral fluoroquinolones (INR per 10 tablets) of the same strength and dosage form manufactured by different companies was obtained from Drug Today April to July 2021 Volume 1, MIMS, and 1mg.com. The cost ratio and the percentage cost variation of individual drug brands were calculated. Prices of generic fluoroquinolones from the Jan Aushadhi scheme (JAS) were compared with branded drugs. Of 11 different oral fluoroquinolones, levofloxacin 500 mg had the highest percentage variation of 11.100%, and three formulations marketed by a few manufacturers have a percentage reduction of less than 100%. Of 23 different combinations available as 33 different dosages, the highest cost variations were observed in Norfloxacin 400 mg plus tinidazole 600 mg combination (1317%). When compared, some generic fluoroquinolones available under JAS were not cheaper than the minimum cost of their branded counterparts. Wide variation in the cost of the different brands of the same oral fluoroquinolones manufactured by other companies was observed. This adds to the economic burden for the patients. Hence, stakeholders should aim to decrease the cost variation among different brands while maintaining therapeutic efficacy

Awareness regarding generic and ethical medicines, and Jan Aushadhi Kendra: A survey-based study

Background Increased healthcare charges remain a prime subject worldwide, especially in underdeveloped and developing countries like India, where economic conditions are on the lower side. To control this, the Government of India (GoI) launched Jan Aushadhi scheme in April 2008 for providing low-cost generic medicines, however, the scheme has not been able to reach an extent. Moreover, the patients rely on branded prescribed medicines due to a lack of awareness. India is the world’s largest maker of generic medicines since its pharmaceutical sector fulfils over 50% of the global demand, still, Indians are spending their 10–20% of total income as health expenses. Aim and Objective This cross-sectional study was designed to have insight into the awareness of generic and ethical medicines among youth studying in different institutes. The main objective was to collect the responses from the students studying in various undergraduate and post-graduate professional programs. We aimed to collect 300 responses from students enrolled in various institutes located in Doaba region of Punjab. Materials and Methods A self-made questionnaire comprising basic questions based on generic and ethical medicines and Jan Aushadhi Kendra was randomly distributed amongst respondents through Google form. Conclusion According to the study’s findings, respondents had average understanding of the Jan Aushadhi Kendra. The study’s findings revealed a modest relationship between knowledge and attitude towards the Jan Aushadhi initiative. Despite the fact that the Jan Aushadhi plan was started many years ago, it has yet to gain limelight in the country.

A study of various existing interventions for the treatment of hypertension in the Indian market under the Jan Aushadhi Scheme: A price control aspect for consideration by Journal of Health Policy & Outcomes Research

Aim: Analysis of the percentage price differences among the widely prescribed antihypertensive drugs available on the Indian retail market and under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) or the Jan Aushadhi scheme. Materials and Methods: The prices of frequently prescribed various antihypertensive brands were collected and organized by using latest Monthly Index of Medical Specialties. The price of 1 dosage form in INR of each brand was extracted. Based on the price of various brands, average price of each drug was calculated and compared with the price of PMBJP drugs. Additionally, literature review was performed to place the results in perspective. Results: The prices of prescribed antihypertensive medicines were analyzed and compared with PMBJP drugs. In monotherapy, Metoprolol 25 mg showed a maximum price difference of 89.08%; in combination therapy, Ramipril 5 mg plus Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg indicates maximum price difference of 90.76%. In addition, Telmisartan 40 mg demonstrate 88.59%, Ramipril 5 mg plus Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg demonstrate 90.76%, Ramipril 5 mg plus Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg and Amlodipine 5 mg indicates 90.38% price variation in one treatment course based on the grading of hypertension. Further, on literature review 11 relevant articles were found which were consistent with the results of this study. Conclusion: The results of our study show huge differences between the prices of PMBJP drugs and branded drugs available in India. It suggests that moving towards PMBJP drugs may lessen the financial strain on the patients and their caregivers. The prescriber should make an informed decision and choose the cheaper antihypertensive drugs to lessen the financial burden on the patient leading to maximum patient adherence.

Generic Anticancer Drugs of the Jan Aushadhi Scheme in India and Their Branded Counterparts: The First Cost Comparison Study.

Introduction: In India, the costs of cancer drugs are exorbitant and cause significant financial toxicity to the affected patient and their family members. Considering this, Jan Aushadhi pharmacy stores were established across the country by the government of India with the objective of providing cheap generic medicines to patients. The objective of this study was to perform a cost comparison study of generic chemotherapeutic drugs provided through Jan Aushadhi pharmacies versus their branded counterparts. This will help patients and physicians get first-hand information on the cost variation between generic and branded anticancer drugs in India.Materials and Methods: The cost of Jan Aushadhi generic drugs and the cost of the most expensive and cheapest marketed branded drugs for the same molecule and dose were ascertained and presented in both Indian Rupees (INR) and US Dollars (as of July 2021). Finally, the difference in costs in INR, cost ratio, and cost variance were calculated, comparing the price of the Jan Aushadhi generic drugs with the most expensive and the cheapest branded drug in the same category.Results: Compared to branded drugs, all the Jan Ausadhi generic drugs were cheaper, except one (methotrexate). The highest cost difference was observed for docetaxel, while the least was observed for methotrexate tablets (2.5 mg). The highest cost ratio (22.24) and cost variance (3327.56) were observed for doxorubicin injection (50 mg).Conclusion: The current study compares the cost difference between the marketed branded and Jan Aushadhi generic anticancer drugs for the first time. Replacing the costly branded anticancer drugs with Jan Aushadhi generic drugs can result in substantial cost savings. The information obtained from this cost difference analysis will be helpful for the healthcare fraternity, patients, policymakers, and society at large.

Perception of rural and urban population on generic and branded drugs

Generic medicines are identical/ clone to an innovator or product brand name. After expiration of patent terms of the innovator product, other pharmaceutical companies usually apply to the drug regulatory bodies for approval to market the generic versions of the innovator's drugs. Generic drugs in the market were sold under the non-proprietary name or brand name. Drugs and medicines form a significant portion of out of pocket (OOP) expenses in Indian households. In order to resolve this issue, Government of India launched Jan Aushadhi Scheme (JAS) to provide inexpensive generic drugs to the patients. A separate interview was conducted for the illiterate people and Google forms were forwarded through whatsapp for literates, both contain the same questions to exclude the bias. The collected data was analysed and converted to graphs/ pie charts and the collected data was documented. Our study concludes that by using the questionnaire, the total patients (n= 500) were interviewed, different ages of people were included(15 to above 50).15-30 age group 29.2%, 31-49 age group 39.8%, above 50 age group 31% were involved. Male 60.4%, Female 39.4%, literate 47.4%, illiterate 52.6%, rural 49%, urban 51% were involved. A standard survey form/data collection sheet for both rural and urban population was used. Both literates and illiterates in rural and urban population almost 49% preferred branded drugs due to brand trust, quality, efficacy, and nearly 38% purchase medications based on the availability and remaining 13% preferred generic due to various reasons like cost effectiveness, same as branded quality and effectiveness.

Opinion of primary care physicians regarding prescription of generic drugs: A Cross-sectional study.

Background:Generics are low-cost alternatives of the existing approved branded drugs. The aim of this work was to study knowledge and perception about generic drugs among the doctors practicing in government and private healthcare sectors.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted with a prevalidated questionnaire. Physicians working in government and private healthcare sectors were asked to fill the survey form after obtaining written informed consent. Descriptive analysis was used.Results:Of 240, 11.6% of primary care physicians could identify all the correct statements regarding generic drugs and 57% physicians agreed or strongly agreed that doctors should prescribe only generic drugs. Substandard quality (24.4%) and less effectiveness (35.6%) of generics was cited major reason for low use. Majority (76.1%) believed that patients will accept substitution of branded with generics but 21% either did not or rarely inform patients regarding generics. Only 11.7% considered generics has low efficacy as compared to branded drugs but majority (57.4%) denied the interchangeability of generics. Majority were aware about the Jan Aushadhi scheme (79.3%) and Indian Medical Council Act (Professional conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) (76.8%). For personal use, 45.6% preferred generics. Around 44% agreed/strongly agreed for pharmacist's right to substitute branded drugs with generics but private practicing physicians opted against it.Conclusion:Knowledge and acceptance of generic drugs is still low amongst the doctors. Efforts need to be done increase the awareness and acceptability.

A Cost Variation Analysis of Drugs Available in the Indian Market for the Management of Thromboembolic Disorders.

IntroductionCardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have become one of the major causes of mortality among the Indian population. The costs of anticoagulant, antiplatelet, and fibrinolytic drugs that are used to treat various thromboembolic disorders and used as prophylactics for individuals at high risk of CVDs vary widely in the Indian pharmaceutical market. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost variation of different brands of drug formulations and to compare the branded prices of the formulations with their corresponding generic and ceiling prices.Materials and methodsThis study followed an analytical method. Costs of various drugs were obtained from the October - December 2019 edition of the Current Index of Medical Specialities (CIMS) and December 2019 edition of the Monthly Index of Medical Specialities (MIMS) India. Cost ratio and percentage variation in cost per tablet/capsule/injection of different drugs available in the Indian market and manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies were calculated. Comparison of the branded prices with generic and ceiling prices was also performed for different drugs by using information available from official websites.ResultsPercentage variation in cost among the commonly prescribed drugs for the management of thromboembolic disorders was found to be highest for prasugrel 10 mg tablet (1,408.44%) while it was lowest for fondaparinux 2.5 mg / 0.5 ml injection (20%). Among the commonly prescribed drugs that are under Drugs Prices Control Order (DPCO) price control, streptokinase 1.5 MIU injection had the highest cost variation (132.02%) while enoxaparin 60 mg / 0.6 ml injection had the lowest (4.99%). Among some of the important formulations under the Jan Aushadhi scheme (JAS), acenocoumarol 2 mg tablet had the highest cost variation (680.09%) and cilostazol 50 mg tablet had the lowest (55.46%).ConclusionsWide differences exist in the costs of various anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and fibrinolytics available in the Indian market. The prescribing physician should be aware of theses variations and prescribe medicines accordingly, keeping in mind the financial status of the patients.

A strategy to improve resource utilization: Case study of generic drug distribution in Rajasthan

The establishment of standard, universal and quality healthcare service is essential for developing countries such as India to enhance the quality of life. Various healthcare schemes such as Jan Aushadhi Scheme, Mukhyamantri Nishulk Dava Yojna etc are operating in India which provides free healthcare services including free distribution of medicines. The medicines provided in these schemes are mostly generic drugs and the supply chain has already been established for it. The variety of generic drugs varies in quantity across different storage points and consumption points, and also having different self-lives, costs and logistics requirements. It was observed that the performance of these supply chain needs to be improved in various dimensions. Therefore, generic drug distribution in Rajasthan is studied and analyzed in the current study. The different aspects of generic drug distribution considered in the study are process view of the existing supply chain, sourcing, ordering and procurement, logistics and warehousing, inventory management and information system. The use of various techniques such as value stream mapping, inbuilt analytical tool for ordering, 5S practice and performance measurement system is explored to develop a strategy for improved resource utilization.

A cross-sectional study to compare knowledge and perception of generic medicine among medical students at a tertiary care center

Background: Prescribing generic medicine is still a debatable issue among prescribers and the issues of bioequivalence, quality, and safety remain problem areas. The perception that generic medicines are inferior to brand medicine can be eradicated by educating medical students who are the future prescribers. Aim and Objective: The correct knowledge of generic medicine among students will enhance the prescribing of low cost and effective medicines. Therefore, this study was conducted to analyze the knowledge and perception of generic medicines among undergraduates (UG), interns, and postgraduate (PG) students in a medical teaching institute. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 medical students (145 UG, 50 interns, and 35 PG) in Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences, Saifai, to assess knowledge and attitude of students for generic medicines. Chi-square test was used to analyze results. Results: About 98% of UG and interns and 100% of PG students were aware of generic medicines. Awareness of Jan Aushadhi Scheme is substantially poor in UG students as compared to interns and PG (P < 0.001). About 86% of student considered generic medicine of low cost, less effective (30%), poor quality (34%), and having more side effects (38%) as compared to branded medicine. Students believe product bonuses (28%) and advertisement (38%) by pharmaceuticals will alter their prescribing patterns in the future. About 71% of students (P < 0.001) consider that it is easier to remember a generic name and 89% of students (P < 0.001) wish to have further information regarding generic medicine in their medical curriculum. Conclusion: Medical students lack comprehensive knowledge and carry erroneous impressions for generic medicine. There is a need for more emphasis regarding generic medicine in UG medical curriculum. This will augment rational prescribing and cost-effective use of generic medicine in the future.

Perception toward low-cost generic medicines and their usage among dental patients visiting community outreach programs in the peripheral areas of Bangalore South: An exploratory cross-sectional survey

Background: The burden and prevalence of oral diseases are higher in developing countries, especially among the poor and disadvantaged populations. These people may suffer from various dental and systemic illnesses. Hence, provision of reducing the out-of-pocket money by purchasing generic drugs might enable better oral and general health-care-seeking behavior. Objectives: The objective was to assess the perception toward low-cost generic medicines available through the Pradhana Manthri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana and their usage among dental patients visiting community dental outreach programs conducted in the villages near a tertiary care dental teaching hospital, Bangalore South. Materials and Methods: An exploratory descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out over a period of 3 months among 200 residents participating in the dental outreach programs in 15 villages of Bangalore South. Data were collected using a prevalidated closed-ended interviewer-administered questionnaire. Results: Most respondents (82.5%) were not aware of Prime Minister Jan Aushadhi Kendra (PMJAK) and only 17.5% knew about the nearest PMJAK. The majority (96.5%) were not aware of the availability of dental-related medicines in PMJAK and (95.5%) preferred to buy Jan Aushadhi drugs over branded medicine if the quality of generic and branded medicine is the same. Most respondents (98%) liked to have more awareness through mass media about PMJAKs/medicines. Conclusion: The results indicate that more awareness must be created, and strict laws implemented about the Jan Aushadhi scheme to save health cost expenditure; if the quality of generic and branded medicine is the same, most people are willing to use the medicines sold at PMJA Kendras.

Challenges constraining availability and affordability of insulin in Bengaluru region (Karnataka, India): evidence from a mixed-methods study

IntroductionConsidering limited global access to affordable insulin, we evaluated insulin access in public and private health sectors in Bengaluru, India.MethodsEmploying modified WHO/HAI methodology, we used mixed-methods analysis to study insulin access and factors influencing insulin supply and demand in Bengaluru in December 2017. We assessed insulin availability, price and affordability in a representative sample of 5 public-sector hospitals, 5 private-sector hospitals and 30 retail pharmacies. We obtained insulin price data from websites of government Jan Aushadhi scheme (JAS) and four online private-sector retail pharmacies. We interviewed wholesalers in April 2018 to understand insulin market dynamics.ResultsMean availability of insulins on India’s 2015 Essential Medicine List was 66.7% in the public sector, lower than private-sector retail (76.1%) and hospital pharmacies (93.3%). Among private retailers, mean availability was higher among chain (96.7%) than independent pharmacies (68.3%). Non-Indian companies supplied 67.3% products in both sectors. 79.1% products were manufactured in India, of which 60% were marketed by non-Indian companies.In private retail pharmacies, median consumer prices of human insulin cartridges and pens were 2.5 and 3.6 times, respectively, that of human insulin vials. Analogues depending on delivery device were twice as expensive as human insulin. Human insulin vials were 18.3% less expensive in JAS pharmacies than private retail pharmacies. The lowest paid unskilled worker would pay 1.4 to 9.3 days’ wages for a month’s supply, depending on insulin type and health sector. Wholesaler interviews suggest that challenges constraining patient insulin access include limited market competition, physicians' preference for non-Indian insulins, and the ongoing transition from human to analogue insulin. Rising popularity of online and chain pharmacies may influence insulin access.ConclusionInsulin availability in Bengaluru’s public sector falls short of WHO’s 80% target. Insulin remains unaffordable in both private and public sectors. To improve insulin availability and affordability, government should streamline insulin procurement and supply chains at different levels, mandate biosimilar prescribing, educate physicians to pursue evidence-based prescribing, and empower pharmacists with brand substitution. Patients must be encouraged to shop around for lower prices from subsidized schemes like JAS. While non-Indian companies dominate Bengaluru’s insulin market, rising market competition from Indian companies may improve access.

Impact of Brand Awareness and Customer Satisfaction Towards Services of Jan Aushadhi Medicalstores

This study focused on ‘Jan Aushadhi Scheme’ launched by the government of India. It is the need of the hour to understand the knowledge level of the consumer about generic medicine to promote the product and services across the various region in India. The purpose of the study is to identify the service of the stores by way of assessing service quality, brand awareness and customer satisfaction to offer suitable marketing strategies to the Jan Aushadi Medical Stores.

Cost analysis of various branded versus generic chemotherapeutic agents used for the treatment of early breast cancer- a deep insight from India

ABSTRACT Background Breast cancer (BC) stands first with high incidence and mortality in India. Most of the oncologists are unaware of cost savings by utilising generic drugs. Aim To perform a cost minimization analysis of generic versus branded chemotherapeutic regimen for treatment of BC. Methodology CIMS (current index of medical stores) was referred for the cost of branded drugs and the generic cost was taken from Jan Aushadhi scheme. The percentage cost variation and potential cost-saving particular to BC regimens on substituting available generic drug was calculated using standard formula and costs were presented in Indian Rupees and US Dollars (as of 2019). Results Among the branded agents considered, a range of 25% to 606.11% cost variation was observed with cyclophosphamide and 5-Fluorouracil respectively. Gemcitabine proposed the highest cost variation (373.68%-990.78%) and cyclophosphamide (71.42%-114.28%) with the lowest variation when compared to generic drugs. The highest level of cost-saving (₹60,807.3 to ₹1,31,864.1) with TAC regimen and the lowest range (₹12,15.84 to ₹15,667.2) with AC regimen was observed among adjuvant therapy regimens. Conclusion Our evaluation inferred that substituting generic chemotherapeutic drugs can bring potential cost savings. Healthcare professionals and patients should aware and opt generic drugs to achieve goals of BC therapy.

Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding generic medicines and its usage: a community-based study

Background: India is the largest provider of generic medications globally. Despite this, several essential medicines remain inaccessible to majority of the general population, due to poor awareness, unavailability of drugs, distrust about the quality of the medicines, poor policy implementation and inadequate recommendation by doctors.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 1151 adults in rural and urban areas attached to the community outreach area of a University Medical College. Written informed consent was taken from the participants. Data was collected using a pre-tested semi-structured online questionnaire and analysed using SPSS 15.0.Results: Knowledge regarding generic medicines was found to be low among the surveyed population (666, 57.9%), irrespective of their socio-economic status, education, occupation, place of residence or presence of chronic illnesses. As the knowledge was poor, participants were briefed about the generic medicines and their benefits. Thereafter, the attitude was assessed and found to be favourable among more than half (633, 55.0%) of the surveyed population. The usage of Generic medicines was found to be poor among the respondents. Only 53 (4.6%) of the total study population had switched from branded to generic medicines in the past six months as generic medicines were less expensive compared to their branded counterparts.Conclusions: The awareness about generic drugs and its usage was poor in the surveyed population. A favourable attitude towards generic drugs was achieved by educating the people about their similarity to branded medications. Therefore, there is a need to educate people not only about the quality, safety and efficacy of the generic medicines but also about the government initiatives like the Jan Aushadhi scheme.

Evaluation of knowledge, attitude, and practice of generic drugs among intern doctors at a tertiary care teaching hospital

Background: The increasing health-care expenses are a major concern for the health-care proving system in the world. As stated by the World Health Organization, in the majority of developing countries out of pocket expenses may go as high as 80% of total health-care expenditures. In developing countries like India, the generic medicines are not widely prescribed due to lack of knowledge and awareness regarding generic medicines in both prescribers and in patients. Understanding of prescriber’s attitude and perceptions regarding the quality, efficacy, and safety of generic medicines may help to identify important barriers for better generic prescribing. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of generic medicines among intern doctors at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Materials and Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted among intern doctors at a tertiary care teaching hospital using a questionnaire, consisting of questions related to knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding generic medicines. Data were analyzed by MS Excel. Results: A total of 105 (88%) interns responded to the questionnaire. Around 60% of interns agreed with that generic medicine can be used in place of innovator (patented) medicine. Among all the interns, 52.4% were aware of that generic medicine contains the same active ingredient as their counterpart innovator medicine. More than half of interns (55.2 %) were aware of Jan Aushadhi scheme launched by the Government of India. Around 69.5% of interns disagreed with that generic medicines cost less because they are inferior to innovator medicines. Majority of interns (88.6%) were of the opinion that there should be some training session to raise the knowledge and awareness about generic medicines. Around half of the interns (50.5%) had never switch a patient on innovator medicine to generic medicine. Only 1% was not in favor of supporting generic drug prescribing. Conclusion: Knowledge of intern doctors regarding concept and regulations about generic drugs is adequate. Although they prescribe a good number of generic drugs, concerns regarding quality, efficacy, safety, availability, and awareness are present among them. Hence, mass awareness programs and training sessions are required to address these concerns which may alter their prescribing behavior and can encourage for more use of generic medicines.