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Dose-Based vs Product-Based Prescribing

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Introduction

In EPMA systems, medications can be prescribed using two conventions: dose-based or product-based.

 

Understanding the differences helps improve prescribing safety, efficiency, and clarity during transitions of care.

Gloved hands holding vials

What is Dose-Based Prescribing?

Dose-based prescribing focuses on the required dose (e.g. "Paracetamol 1g QDS") without tying the order to a specific product. The system or pharmacist determines how to supply the dose, offering flexibility in product selection. It’s common in hospital/inpatient settings, where clinicians manage medicines on-site.

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Pros:

  • Greater flexibility for administration (e.g. tablets or liquid)

  • Simplifies prescribing when dose is more important than form

  • Well-suited to clinical workflows in hospitals

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Cons:

  • Requires conversion before dispensing

  • Less clear for patients

  • Can introduce inconsistency if not standardized

Sorting Medicine

What is Product-Based Prescribing?

Product-based prescribing ties the order to a specific product (e.g. "Paracetamol 500mg tablets, take 2 QDS"). This format is standard in primary care/community settings, where clear instructions are needed for dispensing.

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Pros:

  • Precise, patient-friendly instructions

  • Ready for dispensing without interpretation

  • Ideal for EPS and community pharmacy

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Cons:

  • Less flexible if product is unavailable

  • Prescribers must choose the right formulation up front

  • May require rewriting if needs change

Hand holding white pills

Key Differences

 Dose-Based Prescribing

Common Setting: Hospitals

Focus: Dose amount

Flexibility: High

Patient Clarity: Lower

Dispensing Ready: No

Suitable for EPS: N0

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Product-Based Prescribing

Common Setting: Primary Care

Focus: Specific product

Flexibility: Low

Patient Clarity: Higher

Dispensing Ready: Yes

Suitable for EPS: Yes

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Practical Example

  • Dose-Based:

"Paracetamol 1g QDS"

→ system/admin decides form

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  • Product-Based:

"Paracetamol 500mg tablets, 2 QDS"

→ clear, specific product

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Both conventions are essential in different contexts. Understanding their strengths and limitations helps ensure safe prescribing and smooth transitions across care settings.

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Summary

Understanding the difference between dose-based and product-based prescribing is key to safe, effective use of EPMA systems.

 

While hospitals benefit from the flexibility of dose-based orders, community settings rely on the clarity of product-based prescriptions.

 

Both have their place. What matters is using the right approach for the right context, and ensuring smooth translation between them during care transitions.​

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