Abstract

Dr. Siddhartha Dutta*

ABSTRACT

In an effective pharmacotherapy, Rational Use of Medicines (RUM) play an indispensable role. RUM can be simplified as the medicines which prescribed should be for the right patient, appropriate to their clinical needs, in right doses, for right duration, right route and at a price which the patient and community can afford. Underuse, overuse, incorrect prescribing, extravagant prescribing and polypharmacy are common forms of irrational drug use in current scenario. Irrational use of medicine can lead to unacceptable health and financial ramifications. World Health Organization recommends establishment of Drugs and Therapeutics Committee and practice good prescribing to improve public health. Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) should be formulated by each and every country which can serve as a good guide for prescribing for their own region. Country wise data collected with the help of drug utilization studies, pharmacovigilance, pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacoeconomic studies can help in formulating guidelines and plans which would help in proper imposition of RUM to ameliorate the quality of life and public health.