Background:
Generic substitution has resulted in large economical savings for prescription drugs, but there is concern about potential negative consequences such as double medication, altered effect and poor compliance. Such problems would be worst among the elderly since they use many drugs, some have impaired cognitive function and a higher risk of serious consequences.
Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess if there are any negative consequences of genetic changes in the elderly.
Method: The study was a systematic review where data from scientific articles were collected from the PubMed database. A search strategy was developed using MeSH terms and keywords. The work was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines for systematic review. A total of 232 papers were screened and 5 papers remained fulfilling inclusion and exclusion critera.
Results: Two studies show that generic substitution has no effect on patient compliance. One study on antiepiletics showdes that patients experienced different effects and new side effects after switching to generic drugs. However there was no association between switching and seizure related hospital visits. In another study, the results showed no association between hospitalization and generic substitution
Conclusion: There are few studies on the consequences of generic substitution in elderly. Current studies indicate that generic substitution has no effect on the patient's compliance, it may cause some confusion and anxiety in certain groups, but no increase in hospital admissions been found.