
The repertoire of generic groups represents 1/3 of the volume of the pharmacy market in 2010 increasing by +15% (source: GERS 2011). In 2010, the substitution rate was stable at 79%.
The pharmacist - pillar of generics policy in France:
Three quarters of French patients buy generics, and in more than 50% of cases the pharmacist suggests the substitution.
In 2010, a new agreement was adopted by pharmacists’ associations and national health insurance fixing a national objective of 80% substitution rate for generic molecules in 18 months. This agreement withdraws third-party payment for all subscribers who refuse to accept a generic medicine when prescribed by the GP or suggested by the pharmacist.

- Offering stock on generic available the same day as the expiration of the patent
- Limitations to substitution in treatments for severe pathologies and niche products
- Launching a biosimilar
- Maintaining market share during range extension
- Catalogue exploitation
- Launching an exclusive or semi-exclusive generic
- Relaying a mass media campaign in pharmacies
- Establishing positioning as a health actor