Chapter 16 - Rational and Responsible Medicines Use

Abstract

Appropriate use of medicines in the last decade has had a positive influence on health that has decreased disease burden, reduced mortality, and improved the overall quality of life. Nevertheless, this has also given rise to irrational, inappropriate, and ineffective use of medicines. National medicine policies often govern rational medicine use in any country, but unfortunately the need for rational medicine use is higher in developing countries that have limited financial resources and multiple pressing needs. A multifaced intervention to promote rational and responsible medicine use appears to be more effective in these countries. However, the conflicting demands and weakened collaboration between health systems often hinder the implementation of effective interventions. Hence, combating irrational use of medicine requires institutionalization of an approach into the healthcare system with adequate investment in infrastructure development and capacity building.