Concerns Over Ineffective Generic Drugs Elicit Rare Public Response in China

Doctors in China are voicing concerns about the effectiveness of generic drugs, prompting government acknowledgment amidst a backdrop of increasing distrust in the healthcare system.

Public sentiment in China is shifting, as alarming concerns surrounding the effectiveness of generic drugs have spurred rare governmental responses. The country’s procurement system, which prioritizes cost-cutting through generic medicine, is being scrutinized by both healthcare professionals and the public. The discontent surfaced prominently in December when nearly 200 companies were contracted to supply state hospitals, mostly comprising domestic generic drug manufacturers. This initiative to reduce state spending is now facing backlash, with doctors like Zheng Minhua from Shanghai highlighting serious issues like ineffective antibiotics and laxatives. His viral comments resonated with public anxieties, leading to widespread anecdotes about failed treatments from these medications.

The government’s defense claims that negative perceptions stem from anecdotal evidence rather than statistical realities, yet their reassurances have done little to soothe fears. Censorship efforts have struggled against the tide of conversation, with many individuals voicing their frustrations on platforms like Weibo and Xiaohongshu. Popular figures have also pointed out the struggle of accessing quality imported medications amidst an array of cheaper but suspect alternatives.

China's drug procurement policy, launched in 2018, aimed to cut medicine costs but has allegedly incentivized low-quality production. Critics warn that excessive cost-cutting could be risking patients’ health, jeopardizing the principle of safety over savings. With existing challenges including an ageing population and strained public medical insurance, rising dissatisfaction reflects a deeper crisis within China’s healthcare landscape. Although public reactions are being acknowledged by state authorities, experts call for urgent improvements in drug quality control and procurement standards to restore faith in the healthcare system. As the nation grapples with its dual commitment to affordability and safety, questions loom over the sustainability of its healthcare policies and their broader implications for public welfare.