Abstract
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.