ISSN:
1432-1041
Keywords:
Drug expenditure
;
rational prescribing
;
Italy
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Drug use in Italy in the period 1983–1991 has been analysed. The twenty most used substances accounted for about 20% of the sold packages. The effect of marketing of new drugs is worth noting: new and more expensive drugs are preferred even when effective, safe and less expensive alternatives are available. Prescribers have to face a highly dynamic pharmaceutical market in which 30% of substances (among the 300 most sold) changes every five years. Other than a more rational formulary, independent information and continuing education have to be considered as tools to improve a more rational prescribing.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00195926
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