Difficulties for rational drug use

Abstract

Approaching the 25th anniversary of the definition of the concept of the rational drug use in Nairobi, the author makes a reflection about how it is possible to achieve a better use of them in the Andean Community from the discussion of three main issues: (1) drugs are not always needed to treat a disease; (2) to treat is more than to handle a written prescription with a brand name; and (3) it is necessary to involve the patient in his own treatment.