Comprehensive Guide to the WHO Drug Dictionary
The WHO Drug Dictionary, also known as WHODrug, is a comprehensive resource for medicinal product information maintained by the Uppsala Monitoring Centre (UMC), a WHO Collaborating Centre for International Drug Monitoring. It serves as a valuable tool for various stakeholders in the healthcare and pharmaceutical fields.
key features of the WHO Drug Dictionary:
1. Global scope:
Covers medicinal products and active ingredients from nearly 150 countries. This makes it a truly international resource for drug information, enabling comparisons and analysis across different regions.
- Comprehensive content: Includes information on:
- Proprietary and generic drug names.
- Active ingredients and their chemical structures.
- Anatomical and therapeutic classifications based on the ATC system.
- Dosage forms and routes of administration.
- Marketing authorizations and regulatory status.
- Product labels and summaries of product characteristics.
2. Multiple applications:
WHODrug supports various activities and functions, including:
- Pharmacovigilance: Facilitates the identification and reporting of adverse drug reactions.
- Clinical trials: Provides accurate drug information for study design and data analysis.
- Drug coding: Enables consistent coding of drugs for database management and research.
- Drug information services: Supports healthcare professionals and patients in accessing reliable drug information.
3. Multiple versions:
WHODrug is available in different formats to cater to diverse needs:
- WHODrug Global: An online platform offering the most comprehensive and up-to-date information.
- WHODrug Koda: A powerful drug coding assistant utilizing AI and advanced algorithms for efficient and accurate drug coding.
- WHODrug SDGs: A specific version focusing on essential medicines and their availability in low- and middle-income countries.
4. Benefits of using WHODrug:
- Improved patient safety: Supports pharmacovigilance activities and promotes safer medication use.
- Enhanced research and development: Enables efficient design and conduct of clinical trials.
- Streamlined data analysis: Facilitates consistent coding and analysis of drug data.
- Informed decision-making: Provides reliable drug information for healthcare professionals and patients.
5. Accessing WHODrug:
- WHODrug Global and WHODrug SDGs are freely accessible online.
- WHODrug Koda is available for subscription.
Overall, the WHO Drug Dictionary is a valuable resource for anyone involved in the healthcare and pharmaceutical fields. Its comprehensive content, global scope, and diverse applications make it a crucial tool for promoting patient safety, enhancing research, and ensuring accurate and accessible drug information.