Generic substitution in the treatment of epilepsy: patient attitudes and perceptions

There have been considerable debates about bioequivalence and generic substitution of certain critical care drugs. We aimed to understand patient attitudes and perceptions about generic substitution in the treatment of epilepsy. In this pilot study, a self-administered anonymous survey was completed by 47 patients with epilepsy. The response rate by postal mail was 6.7%. More than 70% of the patients were concerned about the effectiveness of generic antiepileptic drugs, and 68% of the patients were not comfortable receiving generics to treat their epilepsy. About 87% of the patients thought that their antiepileptic drug should only be substituted with a generic with their consent, and 64% of the patients believed that substitution should only take place with the consent of their doctor. Considerable concern exists among patients about generic substitution in the treatment of epilepsy. More data regarding whether generic antiepileptic drugs are bioequivalent in clinical situations would help to address patient concerns.