who medicines strategy - libdoc.who.int - World Health Organization

WHO MEDICINES STRATEGY 2004-2007 | 68EO 3.6Competition and generic policiesimplemented along with guidelinesfor maximizing competition inprocurement practicesRationaleWHO has long advocated the use of genericmedicines of known quality as a cost-effectivemeans of ensuring access to and the availabilityof essential medicines 31 . Several industrializedcountries make extensive use of genericmedicines, and competitive bulk procurement bygeneric name is a central feature of most essentialdrugs programmes. Yet recent evidence fromMember States, particularly low- and middleincomecountries, suggests that the potential ofgeneric medicines is seldom fully attained inthe formulation and implementation of nationalmedicines policy. The use of generic drugs canbe promoted at various levels, from procurementto the point of purchase. In the private market,price competition can be encouraged throughgeneric prescribing and generic substitution.There are four main factors that influence theuse of generic drugs and the success of genericdrug programmes: supportive legislation, qualityassurance capacity, acceptance by prescribers andthe public, and economic incentives.ProgressWhile over half of low-income countries haveformulated NMPs, two-thirds of these havenot yet been implemented. In 1999, less than20% of WHO Member States confirmed thatthey required or allowed generic prescribing inthe public sector, though over 40% confirmedthat generic substitution was allowed at privatemedicine retail outlets 32 . Clearly, much more canbe achieved by countries to integrate genericmedicines into the daily decision-making ofpurchasers, prescribers, dispensers, and patients.Challenges remainingMajor challenges remain in the four areasidentified above. Supportive legislation is oftenlacking. Too few countries have effective qualityassurance capability, and many prescribersand patients remain sceptical about genericmedicines. The potential of generic products toincrease access to essential medicines is far fromfully utilized.Meeting the challenges 2004-2007Over the next four years WHO will:> continue to advocate for the use of genericsand seek ways to motivate countries to adoptgeneric policies.OUTCOME INDICATORS1999 2003 2007Countries in which generic substitution is allowed inprivate pharmacies#REPORTING % TARGET#REPORTING % TARGET83/135 61% 75% 99/132 75% 81%