Use of generic drugs in São Paulo city, Brazil, in 2003: a population-based study

Author(s)

Camila Nascimento Monteiro ^[1] ; Reinaldo José Gianini ^[2] ; Neuber José Segri ^[3] ; Moisés Goldbaum ^[4] ; Marilisa Berti de Azevedo Barros ^[5] ; Chester Luiz Galvão Cesar ^[6]

Affiliation

^[1] Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Medicina - Brasil

^[2] Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Medicina - Brasil

^[3] Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso. Departamento de Estatística - Brasil

^[4] Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Medicina - Brasil

^[5] Universidade Estadual de Campinas. Faculdade de Ciências Médicas - Brasil

^[6] Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública - Brasil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Epidemiol. Serv. Saúde; v. 25, n. 2, p. 251-258, 2016-06-00.

Abstract

Abstract OBJECTIVE: to analyze the use and perception of generic drugs by people with diabetes and hypertension in São Paulo City, Brazil, considering the Brazilian Generic Drug Policy. METHODS: this was a cross-sectional study using data from a household health survey (ISA-Capital) in 2003; analysis was performed on knowledge regarding generic drugs and on the association between their use and sociodemographic and socio-economic characteristics. RESULTS: 603 people with hypertension and diabetes were included in the study, low use of generic drugs was found (33.3% and 26.3, respectively) and low cost was the major reported advantage of generic drugs (71.0% and 71.1%, respectively); there was no statistically significant difference between the use of generic medication and age, sex or schooling. CONCLUSION: low cost and there being no difference between generic drug use and education level strengthen the importance of generic drugs for promoting equity and universal access to medication. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 12/14153-0 - Use of health service by diabetic and hypertensive patients in the city of São Paulo - 2003/2008: population-based surveys
• Grantee: Camila Nascimento Monteiro
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate