What is the purpose of a drug utilization review (DUR)?

A drug utilization review (DUR) is primarily intended to evaluate prescribed medications for potential issues. This process ensures that medications prescribed to patients are appropriate, safe, and effective for their specific conditions. DUR involves checking for various factors, such as drug interactions, allergies, incorrect dosages, or duplications of therapy, which can ultimately enhance patient safety and optimize pharmacotherapy.

While the other options mention important aspects of pharmacy operations, they don't capture the core function of a DUR. Evaluating medication costs focuses on financial implications rather than patient safety and efficacy. Monitoring the availability of medications is crucial for inventory management, but it does not address the clinical aspects of prescribed drugs. Assessing pharmacy workflows relates more to operational efficiency rather than the critical evaluation of medication use in patient care. Therefore, the focus of a DUR is clearly centered on identifying and preventing potential medication-related problems.