Which drug class and why?
Shakib, S.; George, A.
Australian Family Physician 32(5): 325-328
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-8495 PMID: 12772364 Document Number: 553345
Having made the diagnosis, decided on therapeutic goals and the therapeutic approach, the next step is choice of drug class. This article discusses the four factors to be considered when choosing an appropriate drug class: efficacy, safety, suitability and cost. The first consideration in choosing a drug class is the relative efficacy compared with other agents for the particular therapeutic goal. Safety is a broad issue involving adverse reactions, toxicity, tolerance and dependence, teratogenicity, and consideration of special at risk populations. Suitability involves consideration of contraindications to the medication as well as other factors such as the requirements for monitoring, drug formulation and the number of daily doses. Cost includes consideration of drug acquisition as well as the total cost of therapy, including by whom the cost is borne.