What is one requirement for therapeutic substitution in healthcare institutions?

Using an approved formulary is a key requirement for therapeutic substitution in healthcare institutions. A formulary is a list of medications that are approved for use within a particular healthcare system or institution. It is developed based on the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of medications. Therapeutic substitution involves replacing a prescribed medication with a different drug that is therapeutically equivalent, and this practice is typically permitted when both the original and substituted medications are included in the formulary. This ensures that the substitutive medications are vetted and deemed acceptable for use, which is critical for maintaining patient safety and clinical efficacy.

The process is generally governed by institutional protocols, which rely on evidence-based guidelines that help clinicians make appropriate substitutions while minimizing potential risks to patients. By requiring that substitutions be made from an approved formulary, institutions can ensure that their clinical decisions are aligned with agreed-upon standards of care.