Consumer Research

In 2010, the IMB began a programme of market research to establish and measure particular attitudes and actions among Irish consumers. This research has focused on a number of general topics relating to medicines and also, more specifically, on the regulation of medicines.

Herbal Medicines
- May 2011

This research looked at the regulation of herbal medicines and how this is viewed by consumers. It also measured the extent to which consumers are aware of the risk of herbal medicines interacting with other medicines.

The main findings are outlined in the press release below.
IMB Press Release - Herbal Medicines Research

The findings of the survey were released in advance of a new regulatory system for traditional herbal medicines which came into effect across all EU member states on 1 May 2011. Further information about the regulation of traditional herbal medicines, including a questions and answers document for consumers, is available from the herbals section of our website.

Generic medicines
- May 2010

The findings of this IMB research show the extent to which consumers are aware of generic medicines. The findings also outlined the willingness of consumers to use generic medicines if offered to them by their doctor or pharmacist.

The main findings are outlined in the press release below.
IMB Press Release - Generic Medicines Research

The IMB has also published a consumer information leaflet answering some of the most common questions about generic medicines. In particular, it provides important information about the safety, quality and effectiveness of generic products.

Sources of medicines information and the use of the internet
- April 2010

The results of this research outline the extent to which medicines are being safely used and, in particular, how consumers source information about the medicines they take.

The research involved face to face interviews with 1,000 adults and focused primarily on consumers’ views and behaviour in respect of:
• Sources of information and advice on medicines; and
• The use of the internet as a source of medicines information and supply.

Download the main findings

Download IMB press release

The Irish Medicines Board - www.imb.ie

Consumer Research