What is drug utilization review (DUR) and who conducts it within a health system?

• A. Review of prescribed meds for appropriateness and safety; conducted by pharmacists and prescribers
• B. A financial audit of drug spending
• C. A system for checking patient satisfaction with drugs
• D. A process to stock inventory

Answer: (B)

Drug utilization review is an ongoing process that evaluates how medications are used to ensure they are appropriate for the patient, safe, and effective. In a health system, pharmacists lead this review, often with collaboration from prescribers and the broader clinical team. They examine prescriptions and patient information for dosing adequacy, potential drug interactions, duplicate therapies, contraindications, age- or organ function-related adjustments, adherence issues, and alignment with treatment goals. The goal is to improve quality of care, reduce adverse drug events, and optimize overall therapy, while also supporting efficient use of resources. It is not a financial audit of drug spending, a measure of patient satisfaction with medications, or a process for stocking inventory.