What is the purpose of a Drug Utilization Review (DUR)?

The purpose of a Drug Utilization Review (DUR) is fundamentally rooted in ensuring that prescribed medications are both safe and effective for patients. DUR is a systematic process where healthcare providers, pharmacists, and insurers review patient medication records to identify potential drug-related problems, such as adverse drug interactions, duplications, or allergies. By checking the appropriateness of drug therapy according to established criteria, DUR helps promote optimal medication use, which can lead to better patient outcomes and improved safety.

In the context of pharmacy practice, DUR enables pharmacists to intervene when they spot errors before medication is dispensed, thus playing a crucial role in enhancing patient care. This review process is vital to maintain medication integrity, improve therapeutic results, and decrease the risk of medication misuse, ultimately supporting the goal of protecting patient health.