PRESCRIPTIONS AND DRUGS
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Keywords

Prescription safety, opioid crisis, drug misuse, polypharmacy, antimicrobial resistance, medication adherence, pharmacists’ role, prescription guidelines, adverse drug reactions, medication therapy management.

Abstract

Prescription medications play a crucial role in modern healthcare, but their use must be carefully managed to minimize risks such as misuse, adverse drug interactions, and non-adherence. The Beers Criteria and ACP guidelines help ensure safe prescribing, particularly for elderly patients with multiple comorbidities. Issues like prescription drug abuse, the opioid crisis, polypharmacy, and antimicrobial resistance pose significant challenges in medication management. Pharmacists contribute to drug safety through patient education, drug therapy management, and participation in Medication Therapy Management (MTM) programs. Strategies such as Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs), antibiotic stewardship initiatives, and improved patient adherence measures are essential in addressing these concerns. By implementing evidence-based prescribing practices, strengthening pharmacist involvement, and enhancing public awareness, healthcare systems can improve medication safety and therapeutic outcomes.

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References

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