Drugs

Drugs

A drug, broadly defined, refers to any substance that, upon entering the body of a living organism, modifies normal bodily functions. However, the precise definition varies depending on the context, including drug control law, government regulations, medical practice, and everyday language.

In pharmacology, a drug is described as "a chemical substance utilized in the treatment, prevention, cure, or diagnosis of disease, or for enhancing physical or mental well-being." Drugs may be prescribed for a specific period or taken regularly to manage chronic conditions.

Recreational drugs are chemical substances that impact the central nervous system, such as opioids or hallucinogens. They are often used for perceived beneficial effects on perception, consciousness, personality, and behavior. Some drugs can lead to addiction or habituation.

Drugs are typically distinguished from endogenous biochemicals because they are introduced into the organism from outside. For instance, insulin, a hormone synthesized in the body, is considered a hormone when produced by the pancreas internally, but labeled as a drug when administered externally. Certain natural substances, like alcoholic beverages, psychoactive mushrooms, and even DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) produced in trace amounts by the human body, blur the line between food and recreational drugs, affecting both mind and body when ingested.

The Ministry of Health Drug Formulary comprises approved drugs for use in all Ministry of Health hospitals and institutions in Malaysia. This formulary aims to encourage rational, cost-effective drug utilization, introducing newer and more effective drugs in a controlled manner to minimize wastage and optimize funds allocated for drug procurement.

Drugs listed in the formulary are classified according to the WHO ATC (Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical) classification system and coded with the Malaysian Drug Code (MDC) for identification purposes. The MDC consists of a 7-digit ATC code, 3-digit base/salt code, 3-digit dosage form code, 2-digit concentration code, and 2-digit brand code (currently designated as XX in the formulary).

Usage of drugs not listed in the MOH Drug Formulary is prohibited in all MOH hospitals and institutions unless authorized by the Director General of Health. In exceptional circumstances, such as in life-saving situations after exhausting all registered drugs, unregistered drugs may be used with approval from the Director General of Health.

The Malaysia Drug Code (MDC) serves as a unique identifier for each drug product, whether prescribed medications or over-the-counter (OTC) products registered with the Drug Control Authority or granted special approval for use in Malaysia. The MDC facilitates standardized drug management across health systems within the Ministry of Health and supports information sharing among healthcare providers. It also aids in drug utilization research and contributes to cost savings in various aspects of healthcare management, including contracting, inventory management, product identification, and distribution logistics.

Drugs information by A-Z index, check here.