Most European patients believe generic medicines are as effective as brand products, study finds

In the European Health study conducted by InSites Consulting, which included 2,800 participants, seven out of 10 people indicated the ability to differentiate generic medicines from branded drugs. While generic medicines contain the same active ingredients as patented brands, the study still revealed that 44% of patients who claim to be familiar with generic medicines do not believe this.

However, this does not detract from the effectiveness patients ascribe to 'white products,' says InSites. 83% of responders believe that generic medicines are equally effective as the original formula.

71% of patients claim to know the difference between generic medicines and brand medicines. Those able to differentiate generic medicines from brand medicines are - in comparison to the general population - on average slightly higher educated. The 45+ age group is also more familiar with generic alternatives than younger patients, and men more so than women.