Automated pharmaceutical assistance systems

The function of the clinical pharmacokinetic service (CPS) in University Hospital is described. A methodological procedure was developed for routine interpretation of specified drug serum levels. Work lists that identify analytical procedures to be included for clinical pharmacokinetic evaluation are prepared daily. The results of all analyses of serum drug levels are evaluated by a pharmacist who is trained in clinical pharmacokinetics. Patient variables that influence serum levels of drugs are mathematically manipulated by program logic. Projections of expected drug levels as a result of dosing regimens are made and compared to measured laboratory results. Iterative programming that modifies projections on the basis of actual measurements is employed to determine individual drug dosing regimens the provide therapeutic/nontoxic serum levels of drugs. The drug/test interference system, which accesses the CPS data base, provides information concerning the potential physiologic, therapeutic, or toxic effect of drugs on biochemical substances. The system allows display of data concerning each drug before it is administered. Information concerning the date and time of initiation and termination of drug therapy allows for a warning comment to be attached automatically to the appropriate laboratory test result if interference is indicated.