Drug And Therapeutics Bulletin

Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB) is a medical journal that provides healthcare professionals with independent evaluations of, and advice on, drugs and therapeutics. Since its inception in 1962, the DTB has aimed to provide rigorous and objective analysis of the available evidence on the effectiveness, safety, and value of medical interventions. This resource is particularly valued for its independence from pharmaceutical industry influence, relying instead on subscriptions for its funding.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The DTB reviews current practices and standards of care within the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, offering guidance and recommendations based on the latest evidence. Its primary audience includes physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals who seek unbiased information to make informed decisions about patient care. The publication covers a wide range of topics, from new drug evaluations to therapeutic strategies and treatment guidelines.

History[edit | edit source]

The DTB was established in 1962 by the British Medical Association (BMA) as a response to the growing need for a reliable source of drug information for healthcare professionals. Its foundation was partly inspired by concerns over the lack of critical drug evaluations available to practitioners, especially in the wake of the thalidomide tragedy. Over the years, the DTB has maintained its commitment to independence and evidence-based medicine, earning a reputation for its critical stance on drug efficacy, safety, and policy.

Content and Features[edit | edit source]

Each issue of the DTB includes a variety of content types designed to inform and assist healthcare professionals in clinical decision-making:

Drug Evaluations: Comprehensive reviews of new and existing drugs, including indications, contraindications, side effects, and comparisons with other treatments.
Therapeutic Reviews: Analyses of treatment strategies for specific conditions, offering evidence-based recommendations.
Editorials: Commentary on current issues in healthcare, medicine regulation, and policy.
Adverse Drug Reactions: Reports and analysis of side effects and adverse reactions associated with drug therapies.

Editorial Independence[edit | edit source]

A hallmark of the DTB is its editorial independence. It does not accept advertising or commercial sponsorship, and its operations are funded through subscriptions. This model supports its mission to provide unbiased and evidence-based information, free from commercial interests.

Impact[edit | edit source]

The DTB has had a significant impact on healthcare practices and policy. Its articles and recommendations have influenced prescribing habits, guided clinical practice, and informed drug policy decisions. The journal is often cited in clinical guidelines and policy documents, underscoring its role in shaping evidence-based healthcare.

Access[edit | edit source]

The DTB is available in both print and online formats. Subscribers have access to the full text of articles, archives, and additional online resources, including drug alerts and updates.

Criticism and Controversy[edit | edit source]

While widely respected for its independence and quality of analysis, the DTB has occasionally faced criticism from pharmaceutical companies and other stakeholders for its evaluations and recommendations. Critics argue that the DTB's positions can be overly cautious or dismissive of new therapies. However, supporters contend that such scrutiny is essential for maintaining high standards of patient care and safety.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

The Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin remains a vital resource for healthcare professionals seeking reliable, unbiased information on drugs and therapeutics. Its commitment to evidence-based analysis and editorial independence has made it a trusted voice in medical and pharmaceutical circles for over five decades.