Undermedicining

Undermedicining refers to the practice of prescribing or administering less medication than is clinically indicated or necessary to effectively treat a patient's condition. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including physician reluctance to prescribe certain drugs, patient adherence issues, or a misunderstanding of the appropriate dosage or duration of treatment. In some cases, undermedicining can be intentional, such as when a prescriber opts for a lower dose to minimize potential side effects, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly or those with multiple comorbidities.

The consequences of undermedicining can range from treatment failure and prolonged illness to the development of drug resistance, particularly in the context of infectious diseases like tuberculosis or HIV. For chronic conditions, inadequate treatment can lead to disease progression, increased healthcare utilization, and a reduced quality of life for the patient. It can also contribute to a patient's distrust in the healthcare system if they feel their condition is not being adequately addressed.

Conversely, it is important to distinguish undermedicining from appropriate tapering of medication, which involves a gradual reduction in dosage under medical supervision to safely discontinue a drug. Furthermore, in certain situations, a lower dose might indeed be clinically appropriate, making careful assessment and individualized treatment plans crucial. Identifying and addressing undermedicining requires open communication between healthcare providers and patients, as well as a commitment to evidence-based prescribing practices.