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Average daily quantities: a tool for measuring prescribing volume in England
1Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety
|November 26, 2008
Summary
A new unit, Average Daily Quantities (ADQs), was developed to measure drug prescribing volume. This system aids discussions with doctors and supports drug utilization research in England.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Current methods for measuring prescribing volume, such as prescription items and Defined Daily Doses (DDDs), have limitations.
- A need exists for a clear, English-language unit to facilitate discussions about prescribing practices with healthcare professionals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a new, understandable unit for measuring drug prescribing volume in England.
- To create a tool that aids in discussions regarding prescribing with doctors and supports drug utilization research.
Main Methods:
- An expert group was convened to establish Average Daily Quantities (ADQs) for key drug categories.
- ADQ values were determined using Defined Daily Doses (DDDs), average prescribed daily doses, and therapeutic equivalence data.
Main Results:
- The developed Average Daily Quantities (ADQs) provide a practical unit for assessing prescribing volume.
- This system is valuable for both clinical discussions and drug utilization studies.
Conclusions:
- Average Daily Quantities (ADQs) offer a more accessible and useful measure for prescribing volume compared to existing units.
- Regular review of ADQ values will ensure their continued relevance and accuracy in reflecting prescribing patterns and drug information.
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