Awareness and Knowledge of Pharmacists Toward Biosimilar Medicines

ABSTRACT Aims Pharmacists in all clinical settings are recognized drug experts and integral educators of biosimilar medicines. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess pharmacists’ knowledge, predictors of knowledge and views toward biosimilar medicines in Jordan. Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire was conducted in Jordan using an internet-based self-administrated questionnaire via Google Forms. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed to summarize the data for the total sample as counts (percentage). Results A total of 502 pharmacists answered the survey. 52.6% were knowledgeable about biosimilar medicines and the mean number of correct answers was 6.47 ± 1.62 (range 2–10). Multivariate analysis identified that respondents who had heard about biosimilars before (OR = 1.942, 95% CI = 1.231-3.063, p <0.05) were more likely to be knowledgeable. Respondents who had not taken course or post-graduating training course about biosimilars were less likely to be knowledgeable (OR = 0.548, 95% CI =0.357-0.839, p < 0.05). A positive response was noted in pharmacist’s view regarding the implementation of biosimilar medicines in healthcare setting, biosimilar medicine prescription related to decreased costs, self-study about biosimilar medicine, and incorporating biosimilar education program at the pharmacy school curriculum universities level. Conclusions Pharmacists’ views and knowledge vary regarding the particularities and key issues on biosimilar medicines in Jordan. There is a need to improve communication between physicians and pharmacists and pledge educational initiatives to ensure safe and optimal use of biosimilar medicines. Incorporating biosimilar course in pharmacy school curriculum could improve their acceptance for future pharmacy jobs.