[Multidose drug dispensing: what does it really involve?]

- Multidose drug dispensing (MDD) systems are individualised forms of distribution that give structure to medication use. - Starting to use a multidose drug dispensing system must be initiated in joint discussion with the patient, once alternatives such as dosing schemes or automatic repeat-prescription services have been considered. The patient's autonomy and self-management are central.- Studies have shown positive effects of individualised forms of distribution on intermediary outcome measures such as HbA1c, LDL cholesterol, blood pressure and adherence. - Changes in medication should preferably be implemented when the pharmacist orders a new multidose drug dispensing system. It is difficult for the pharmacist to determine whether an immediate change is necessary if the indication and other possible reasons for change are not known. - The prescriber should preferably enquire whether the patient has a multidose dispensing system and should state the moment or the reason for the change on the prescription.- Pharmacotherapy in patients using a multidose drug dispensing system should be reviewed annually.