EDITORIAL: DISSEMINATION OF DRUG INFORMATION TO PATIENTS THROUGH DRUG PRODUCT LEAFLETS

Abstract

A common problem facing clinicians and pharmacists is how to communicate drug information to patients in a clear, precise and unambiguous manner even though the patient may not have the necessary background to comprehend certain scientific concepts. It is well known that patient compliance is greatly influenced by how such information is communicated. In some way, the health professional is expected to justify in a persuasive manner the choice of specific drug, even though this is not stated. The patient may have some suspicion regarding the effectiveness and safety of a drug based on prior experience but rarely volunteers such information.