Systematic approach to drug information requests.

A five-step systematic technique used for answering drug information requests is described. Step 1 is classification of the request. Step II involves determination of exactly what information is being requested and why, and ensuring that all pertinent background data are obtained. Step III is a systematic search of the literature, beginning with general references and progressing through secondary sources to primary articles. Step IV is formulation of the accumulated data into an appropriate writtern of verbal response. Step V involves reclassification of the request which may be necessary if there is a change in its scope.