Preventable Drug Reactions — Causes and Cures

Abstract

MODERN therapeutic agents have contributed favorably to the physician's ability to influence the course of many diseases. Their use has also created a formidable health problem: 18 to 30 per cent of all hospitalized patients have a drug reaction,^{1 , 2} and the duration of their hospitalization is about doubled as a consequence.^{1 2 3 4} In addition, 3 to 5 per cent of all admissions to hospitals are primarily for a drug reaction,^{1 , 5} and 30 per cent of these patients have a second reaction during their hospital stay. The economic consequences are staggering: one seventh of all hospital days is devoted to the care . . .