What does a Drug Utilization Review (DUR) ensure?

A Drug Utilization Review (DUR) is a process employed to assess and improve the quality of medication use. It specifically focuses on ensuring that prescribed drugs are appropriate for the patient, safe based on their medical history and current health status, and effective for the conditions being treated. This comprehensive review helps to identify potential drug interactions, contraindications, and allergies, thereby enhancing patient safety and treatment efficacy.

While cost-effectiveness is a consideration in broader healthcare management, DUR primarily centers on the therapeutic appropriateness and safety of medications rather than financial aspects. Marketing strategies do not play a role in the DUR process, as this is intended to provide clinical oversight rather than promotional guidance. Additionally, the DUR is not limited to generic drugs; it evaluates all prescribed medications regardless of whether they are brand-name or generic. Thus, focusing on the appropriateness and safety of prescribed drugs is the core function of a DUR.