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The social science contribution to pharmacoepidemiology.
1Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Understanding inappropriate pharmaceutical use requires examining psychological, social, and cultural factors influencing consumers and prescribers. New strategies can improve medication adherence and prescribing practices.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical utilization
- Health behavior
- Social sciences
Background:
- Inappropriate pharmaceutical use, including unnecessary prescriptions and non-compliance, is a significant issue.
- Current strategies to improve medication use primarily target prescribers and manufacturers, with limited success.
- Consumer behavior is influenced by beliefs, social opinions, and emotions related to medication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the psychological, social, and cultural factors influencing pharmaceutical use.
- To propose a comprehensive model for understanding drug utilization.
- To outline research strategies for optimizing pharmaceutical utilization.
Main Methods:
- Review of psychological, social, and cultural influences on drug use.
- Analysis of factors affecting both consumers and healthcare providers.
- Development of a conceptual model for pharmaceutical utilization.
Main Results:
- Consumer medication choices are shaped by perceived benefits, safety, cost, social influences, and emotions.
- Prescriber and dispenser behavior is affected by marketing and regulatory environments.
- A holistic model integrating these factors offers a broader perspective on drug use.
Conclusions:
- Optimal pharmaceutical utilization necessitates addressing the complex interplay of individual, social, and environmental factors.
- Effective strategies must target consumers, prescribers, and dispensers.
- Further research into behavior modification techniques is crucial for improving medication adherence and prescribing.