Private pharmacies in Malaysia have the discretion to decide whether to stock generic medicines or innovator (branded) drugs, according to the Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) president, Professor Amrahi Buang. He explained that this decision varies depending on each pharmacy’s business model and operational practices.
“Whether a pharmacy opts to sell generic or branded medicines depends on the individual pharmacy,” said Prof Amrahi, noting that community pharmacies, which operate independently, have particular autonomy in their choices. He emphasized that there is no standardized approach across all pharmacies and underscored the role of consumer preference in influencing the availability of products.
A community pharmacist, speaking on condition of anonymity, described a practice of stocking both generic and innovator drugs. She noted that some consumers continue to favor branded medications, often willing to pay a premium for what they perceive as higher quality or familiarity. “Some of them are so accustomed to innovator drugs that they specifically request those,” she said, adding that this customer demand drives pharmacies to maintain a diverse stock.
On the issue of pricing, the pharmacist indicated that locally produced generic drugs are seldom more expensive than branded alternatives in her experience. She highlighted the practical benefit of carrying both types: maintaining a stable supply chain and avoiding interruptions. “When branded drugs are not available, generics can fill the gap,” she explained, affirming that generics are equally effective as their branded counterparts.
The pharmacist also mentioned that, as they are not subject to mandatory cost-saving requirements, pharmacies try to stock both generics and originator drugs whenever feasible, aiming to meet varying consumer needs and preferences.
This approach reflects a broader flexibility in Malaysia’s private pharmaceutical sector, where business strategies and consumer choices shape the medicines offered at retail pharmacies.