What is the primary purpose of a prospective drug review?

The primary purpose of a prospective drug review is to promote therapeutic appropriateness. This process involves evaluating a patient's medication therapy before the medication is dispensed. The goal is to ensure that the prescribed medication is suitable for the patient's specific clinical situation, taking into account their medical history, current medications, and potential drug interactions. This review helps optimize treatment outcomes, reduce the risk of adverse effects, and ensure that the medication aligns with established therapeutic guidelines.

While monitoring patient adherence and documenting patient interactions are important aspects of pharmaceutical care, they occur after the medication has already been dispensed. Verifying the cost of medications, although a relevant concern, does not directly contribute to the clinical appropriateness of the therapy itself. Thus, promoting therapeutic appropriateness stands as the key objective of a prospective drug review.