New AI Tool Aims to Give Doctors Instant Drug Recommendations and Prevent Medication Errors
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DrugGPT is a new AI tool developed at Oxford that gives doctors instant recommendations on what drugs to prescribe patients based on their conditions. It flags potential side effects and drug interactions.
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The tool explains the reasoning behind its recommendations by showing research, guidance, and references. The goal is to act as a "safety net" second opinion for prescribers.
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DrugGPT is designed to help address the nearly 240 million medication errors made in England each year, though most errors are not serious. It could also help patients better understand their medications.
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The tool goes beyond existing pharmacy check systems by providing more context. If patients better understand their medications, they may be more likely to properly take them.
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Doctors welcome sophisticated tools to minimize human error, but they should be thoroughly tested before widespread use to avoid unintended consequences. More GPs are ultimately needed to deliver safe care.