Differences Between Rational and Irrational Use of Medicines: Challenges and Solutions
Keywords: rational medicine use, irrational use, challenges, solutions
Safiullah Mohabat
Abstract
Medicines are considered a fundamental and vital component of healthcare, as they play a crucial role in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases. The rational use of medicines is essential for improving the quality of healthcare services, ensuring patient safety, and the efficient utilization of financial resources. Conversely, the irrational use of medicines poses a serious challenge to healthcare systems, as research indicates that over half of all medicines are either prescribed inappropriately, dispensed incorrectly, or not used properly by patients. This article elucidates the concepts of rational and irrational medicine use based on definitions provided by the World Health Organization and the World Bank. Furthermore, it analyzes the importance of an Essential Medicines List, the necessity of its implementation, and the value of the core principles of rational medicine use. The primary factors contributing to irrational use have been investigated, including weaknesses in the healthcare system, professional deficiencies among healthcare workers, low health literacy among patients, commercial influences from the pharmaceutical industry, and inappropriate prescribing practices. Additionally, the negative consequences of irrational use are scientifically explained, such as the increase in antimicrobial resistance, adverse drug reactions, treatment failure, and the wastage of economic resources. The objective of this article is to propose scientific, professional, and practical strategies to promote the rational use of medicines, thereby enhancing the quality of healthcare services, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring the efficacy of the public health system.
