A Drug Usage Evaluation (DUE) is used to assess what aspect of medications?

• A. Inventory levels of medications in the pharmacy
• B. Pharmacoeconomic costs of medications
• C. Appropriateness of medication use
• D. Pharmacy staffing efficiency

Answer: (C)

Drug Usage Evaluation is a systematic process used to determine whether medications are used appropriately for individual patients and populations. It compares actual prescribing and use against guidelines, evidence of efficacy and safety, and the intended therapeutic goals. The focus is on correctness and safety of how the drug is used—indicating when a medication is indicated, whether the dose, duration, and route are appropriate, and whether necessary monitoring and potential interactions or adverse effects are addressed. DUE isn’t about how many bottles are in inventory, the cost of drugs, or staff efficiency; it targets the appropriateness of medication use and often drives quality improvement through identified gaps and corrective actions.