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We compared the level of generic prescribing in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and England and surveyed the views of Irish College of General Practitioners members. In 1993, generic drugs (pure generics and branded generics together) comprised 17.4% of total dispensing in the General Medical Services Scheme, significantly less than Northern Ireland or England where pure generics alone comprised 25% and 38% respectively of total dispensing in the National Health Services. General practitioners accurately self-estimated their level of generic prescribing but are concerned about the reliability/quality of generic products on the market, possible legal liabilities associated with their use and the fact that pharmacists may legally dispense more expensive proprietary preparations in the case of private prescriptions written generically. Prescribers need reassurance regarding legal and quality assurance aspects of generic prescribing if the level of generic drug use is to increase.

We determined the utilisation and perceived value of formularies amongst 104 Non Consultant Hospital Doctors (NCHDs). Only 58% routinely carry a formulary, largely the British, National Formulary (BNF) which is considered by 93% to be the best. The overall quality of prescribing in surgical wards was poorer compared to medical wards. However, after distribution of "free BNF's" significant improvements (p < 0.05) occurred, but only in surgical wards and only in aspects of prescribing specifically highlighted (generic prescribing and limiting the duration of intravenous medications). These improvements lasted four weeks before returning to previous levels. Our results suggest that despite recognising their value a significant proportion of Irish hospital doctors do not routinely carry a formulary. The beneficial effects of distributing free formularies was shortlived.