Assessment of community pharmacists’ knowledge of the differences between generic drugs and biosimilars: A pilot cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Pharmacists’ knowledge of the differences in the characteristics between generic drugs and biosimilars is essential to ensure good practice and lower pharmaceutical bills. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate community pharmacists’ knowledge and perception of using and substituting biosimilars and generic drugs. DESIGN: A pilot cross-sectional study was performed over 2 months (August-September 2022) targeting community pharmacists in their work site. METHOD: Data were collected using a uniform survey given to 75 pharmacists. Afterward, a knowledge score was generated by summing several individual scores of statements regarding generic drugs and biosimilars. RESULTS: Overall, pharmacists had moderate to low knowledge scores, namely, with the statements tackling biosimilars. No significance was reported between these scores and their general characteristics. As regards their substitution, most pharmacists agreed to substitute generic drugs if the brand was not available, while the doctor’s approval was crucial for biosimilar switching. Most participants perceived equal effectiveness of generic drugs but similar to a lower one for biosimilars compared to the reference medication. Pharmacists highlighted the need to include generic drugs and biosimilars in the continuing education program and workshops. CONCLUSION: To promote their use, improving pharmacists’ knowledge can help overcome misconceptions about generic drugs and biosimilars. It is recommended that health care stakeholders focus on fostering good understanding among pharmacists to enhance access to medication.