Time-Series Study of the Collection and Utilization of Drug Information.

Abstract

The collection of drug information is indispensable for the efficient supply of information, which is the final goal of Drug Information (DI) activities, but the collected information has no significance if it can not be utilized. Therefore, in order to study a time-series survey on how information collected in the DI Room can be utilized and establish a rational information collection and utilization system, we conducted a pilot study on interferon (IFN) preparations, which have been the subject of many questions to the DI Room in recent years.The study period covered about 16 years from the time when the DI Room was established and collection of information started in 1978 until 1994. The utilization of information was considered to occur when surveys were performed and replies were given to questions on IFN directed to the DI Room during this period. The number of time-series utilizations of collected information and the hit rates, as well as the period from collection until utilization of the information, were calculated.The study period covered about 16 years from the time when the DI Room was established and collection of information started in 1978 until 1994. The utilization of information was considered to occur when surveys were performed and replies were given to questions on IFN directed to the DI Room during this period. The number of time-series utilizations of collected information and the hit rates, as well as the period from collection until utilization of the information, were calculated.In the time-series study, differences in the utilization conditions were found depending on the contents of the information. Because new adverse drug reactions suddenly appeared with the increased dose associated with the addition of hepatitis C as an indication of IFN, the number of cases of collection and utilization of information on adverse drug reactions also increased after addition of the indication, and the hit rates for the collected information were quite good. The appearance of new information resulted in a time-series related reduction in the utilization of old information and shortened the time from collection until utilization. Definite information on stability after dissolving of the preparation, the prick test, etc. was utilized no matter what the time of collection.Because various factors affect the collection and utilization of information, including differences due to the properties of the preparation and the contents of the information, the DI member must bear these factors in mind and endeavor to collect information aimed at the reliable supply of information.