Patient package inserts. II. Toward a rational patient package insert.

Analysis of the response to a questionnaire on various aspects of drug information showed several significant trends. The importance of the physician as an information source varied directly with age and inversely with educational level of patients. The doctor's importance as a source of information was also greater for those who visited physicians' offices or clinics more and if they were on long-term treatment. Younger persons, those with higher levels of education, and those who were not in regular contact with a physician placed greater importance on non-physician sources. Persons consulting physicians regularly desired less information and knew less about drugs than those who did not regularly see a physician. These findings suggest that the educational role of the physician could be improved and should be directed particularly at the low-income, older patient. In the design of the package insert, particular attention should be given to self-prescribed medications where no other information sources will be operating.