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Generic immunosuppression: deciphering the message our patients are receiving
Amanda L Hulbert1, Nicole A Pilch, David J Taber
1Department of Pharmacy Services, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|May 10, 2012
Summary
Patient perceptions of generic immunosuppressants are influenced by income and ethnicity. Experience with generic immunosuppressants increases belief in their equivalency and willingness to switch, highlighting the need for provider-patient communication.
Area of Science:
- Transplant medicine
- Pharmacoeconomics
- Patient-centered care
Background:
- Generic immunosuppressants face controversy in the transplant community.
- Patient attitudes towards generic immunosuppressants remain largely unknown.
- Understanding patient perceptions is crucial for effective communication and monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess transplant recipients' views on generic vs. brand-name immunosuppressants.
- To determine patients' willingness to switch to generic formulations.
- To analyze the impact of socioeconomic factors and demographics on these perceptions.
Main Methods:
- Key informant interviews informed survey development.
- Surveys were distributed to solid organ transplant recipients.
- Data collected from 255 patients, including those who had converted to generic immunosuppressants.
Main Results:
- Financial factors and provider recommendations significantly influence perceptions.
- Patients on generic immunosuppressants showed higher belief in equivalency (75% vs. 54%) and willingness to convert (51% vs. 32%).
- African American patients and those with lower income (<$30,000) had differing beliefs regarding generic equivalency.
Conclusions:
- Patient ethnicity, income, and prior experience with generics shape perceptions.
- The observed use of generic immunosuppressants underscores the importance of open dialogue between providers and patients.
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