Drug Information Q&A Q31. I often hear the term "drug administration guidance" used these days.
Answer
It means that pharmacists explain to patients how to use drugs correctly. Drugs are effective only when they are used correctly, and for this reason, "drug administration guidance" is very important.
Explanation
Based on the doctor's prescription, the pharmacist correctly dispenses the drug and gives it to the patient.
However, it is not enough to just give the drug to the patient. It is also necessary to provide information on the correct use of the drug. This is called "drug instruction.
Medication instruction is also provided for over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. The pharmacist at the store listens carefully to the patient and sells the most appropriate drug. In particular, pharmacists are required to explain OTC drugs that are classified as Class 1 drugs, which are switched from prescription drugs.
The information provided by the pharmacist includes basic information such as the time, frequency, and dosage of the drug, as well as storage methods, side effects to be aware of, and dosage combinations.
In the case of drugs that change the color of urine when taken, such information is also explained to the patient to avoid causing anxiety. Explanations are also given when a drug is changed or a new drug is added to the list.
Medications are effective only when they are used correctly. Medication instruction is very important because it provides information on how to use the medication correctly so that the medication can be used correctly and help in the treatment of illnesses.
The word "guidance" may sound like just a one-way explanation, but listening to the patient's story is also a part of medication counseling. If a patient has a concern about a medication, the pharmacist may be able to help them resolve the concern.
Some patients are reluctant to ask their doctors. Sometimes they forget to ask their doctor. In such cases, feel free to ask the pharmacist. We value communication with patients during medication instruction.
Information on the correct use of drugs is required to be provided to patients by doctors, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. In other words, a drug can only be called "medicine" when it is combined with correct information.
Chart/Column
31｜Medication Guidance
When you receive a drug or a drug instruction sheet, important information about the correct use of the drug will be explained to you (medication instruction). If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
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