Physician's drug innovation and relinquishment

Abstract

Attention is given to the processes involved in the selection of drugs for prescribing by general practitioners. Two particular aspects are focussed upon. The first is innovation, whereby a new preparation is used by physicians. It is argued that this is an irrational process under certain systems of drug administration since general physicians do not possess sufficient knowledge to innovate with expectations of safety and effectiveness. Nevertheless, it is conceded that the process of diffusion of satisfactory innovations is a matter of critical importance.

The second aspect is relinquishment, whereby a physician responds to the advocacy of professional sources by ceasing to use a drug against which these sources warn. This part of the paper is supported by data on the prescribing of non-barbiturate hypnotics. It is seen that despite the most frequent and widespread warnings a drug may still be used. The consequences of the two processes is discussed.