Preventable drug reactions--causes and cures

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 . . .