Generic medicines as a way to improve access and affordability: A proposed framework for Pakistan

Medicines play an important role in health systems throughout the globe; however one third of the world population does not have access to essential medicines. Generic drugs have been instrumental in reducing cost and improving affordability. 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 generics and their quality use is still a question mark. With the increasing population and shrinking resources, generics could be a recipe for improving the access to and affordability of medicines in Pakistan. However, to gain a wider health professionals' support, it is vital to understand the issues surrounding generic medicines. This proposed strategy will document the relative importance of the acceptance of generics in Pakistan. This attempt will ameliorate the perception and credibility of generic drugs among providers, prescribers, and consumers. Moreover, this effort will provide the baseline data to assist policy makers to promote the quality use of generic drugs.