OBJECTIVES: Research to better understand the key influencers of generic drug use – including their knowledge base and perceptions toward generic drugs – is needed to effectively design and deliver communications to these key groups that impact consumer acceptance and use of generic drugs. In order to address this important regulatory science need, this qualitative study that identifies the informational needs of these key groups regarding generic drugs was conducted. METHODS: Key informants in each of the following 6 groups were interviewed between 9/16/2016 and 11/30/2016: 1) patients/caregivers; 2) prescribers; 3) pharmacists; 4) formulary managers; 5) policymakers; and 6) large purchasers of drugs. Participant screeners differed by group. All interview guides focused on the participant’s drug prescribing, dispensing, and utilization backgrounds, roles in generic drug use, beliefs about safety and effectiveness of generic drugs, and informational needs related to generic drugs. Trained interviewers conducted 48 phone interviews. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Qualitative data derived from the transcripts were analyzed with the assistance of NVivo 10 software. Initial themes were identified and discussed until all research team members agreed on major themes. RESULTS: While participants are likely to prescribe, dispense, or utilize generic medications, many suggested that because generic drug information is dispersed across multiple sources, it may be challenging to obtain generic drug information from one source. Likewise, policymakers, large purchasers, and formulary managers participating in the study believe generic drugs to be as safe and effective as their brand name counterparts, but find information difficult to obtain. Participants provided suggestions to improve accessibility of information, including electronic mailings that include information on drug safety, effectiveness, and approval process. CONCLUSIONS: Data collected from these key informant interviews will be used to inform the development of educational materials to address the key groups’ knowledge gaps regarding generic drugs.