Advances in computer-based pharmacy systems.

This paper summarizes recent advances in computer-based pharmacy information systems for both hospitalized and ambulatory patients. It discusses the clinical pharmacy applications of: pharmacokinetic modeling (which allows for the optimization of patient-specific dosage regimens); drug interaction and adverse drug therapy monitoring (to decrease therapeutic problems); intravenous additive and hyperalimentation programs (to aid in formulating complex solutions); drug usage review (to develop and utilize guidelines for appropriate prescribing); drug information services; and drug distribution systems. Administrative and management control systems are briefly described. Automated label preparation and identification of patient noncompliance with physician-directed therapy are also described. The advantages of a computerized integrated hospital information system are also discussed.