What should a pharmacist look for during a prospective DUR?

During a prospective Drug Utilization Review (DUR), a pharmacist evaluates a patient's medication therapy before dispensing a new prescription to ensure safety and appropriateness. This process is crucial for identifying potential problems that may affect patient care.

The correct choice encompasses a comprehensive range of critical assessments a pharmacist should make, including:

• Therapeutic duplications: This occurs when a patient is prescribed two or more medications that effectively treat the same condition. Identifying this helps prevent ineffective treatment and adverse effects from unnecessary medication.

• Abuse/misuse: Recognizing patterns of potential misuse or abuse is essential in safeguarding patient health, particularly with controlled substances that have a high risk of dependence and addiction.

• Drug-drug interactions: A pharmacist must assess potential interactions between the new prescription and the patient's existing medications. These interactions could lead to diminished therapeutic effects or increased toxicity.

• Incorrect duration of treatment: This aspect ensures the prescribed medication aligns with recommended treatment durations, avoiding risks of inadequate treatment or prolonged exposure which may lead to complications.

Each of these factors plays a vital role in ensuring that the medication therapy is safe and effective for the patient. By looking at all of these areas, pharmacists can provide a higher standard of