OBJECTIVES : Generic medication and access to quality and affordable medicines remains a topical issue in global health discourse and a major challenge in Nigeria, leading to poor adherence to medication use. Pharmacists play a vital role in ensuring safe and effective use of medicines. The study aimed to evaluate the perception and practices of community pharmacists towards the use of generic medicine in Awka, Anambra state

METHODS : A cross-sectional study employing a self-administered questionnaire was conducted between April and June 2015, among registered community pharmacies in Awka, Anambra state Nigeria, to assess their attitudes practices towards the sale and dispensing of generic medicines to the public

RESULTS : Of the 29 questionnaires distributed to the registered pharmacies in the city, 24 were returned representing 82.7% response rate. Twenty (83.33%) respondents supported generic substitution while 87.5% believe that substitution right should be given to pharmacists without consulting the prescribing physician. About 75% of the respondents admitted that patients are not knowledgeable about generic medicines. Almost 80% of the pharmacists felt that wider use of generic medicines will reduce health care expenditure. About 91.67% of the pharmacies stock generics in their premises while 50% indicated that they dispense generics only when the patient cannot afford branded ones. About 83% shows tendency to educate their clients on generic medication. Patients’ demand was identified as the major determinant for stocking and availability of generics in the pharmacy while consumer preference was the key factor in generic substitution by the respondents

CONCLUSIONS : Findings indicate the need for improved support for generic substitution through enhanced education of providers and general public to improve availability and access to cheap and quality medicines for the population