The Edges of Clinical Pharmacology: A Narrative Review on Religious and Sociocultural Influences in Drug Management

Abstract

Scientific advancements in pharmacology have revolutionized disease management, significantly enhancing global health. Innovations like biological therapies and mRNA vaccines underscore the field's capacity to address complex conditions and global crises. However, significant challenges remain, including individual biological variations and ethical, cultural, and religious barriers, which complicate treatment access and equity. This review explores these global barriers, emphasizing the intersection of pharmacology with diverse cultural contexts. Religious beliefs often shape attitudes toward treatments. For example, fasting during Ramadan requires careful adjustments to diabetes management protocols, while Jehovah's Witnesses' refusal of blood transfusions necessitates alternative solutions like hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers and cell-saving devices. In Africa, cultural resistance to blood sampling impacts disease diagnosis and therapeutic drug monitoring, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive healthcare strategies. Dietary restrictions rooted in religious practices, such as Kashrut and Halal, further complicate drug formulation. Medications containing animal-derived ingredients may be rejected, necessitating plant-based or certified alternatives. Emergency exceptions in Islamic and Jewish law provide some flexibility, but overall, these challenges underscore the necessity of innovative solutions to ensure inclusive healthcare. This narrative review advocates for an equitable approach to pharmacological research and clinical practice, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and cultural awareness. By addressing ethical dilemmas and respecting diverse traditions, pharmacology can better serve global populations, bridging gaps between modern medicine and cultural values. The review calls for tailored strategies that uphold both medical efficacy and cultural sensitivity to advance healthcare equity worldwide.