Study flags safety risks with Australian prescription apps

A study by the University of Western Australia has found unsafe prescribing practices promoted by some instant prescription service apps in Australia. The study assessed the adherence to safety standards of seven prescription request apps available across Australia. 

Findings from the study showed that none of the seven apps met the core competencies for safe prescribing, and none conducted physical examinations. Only five apps reviewed users' medication or medical history, and only one ensured medication adherence. 

Online app-based prescribing, provides patients with easy access to prescription medications. However, this method may also pose a risk to safety, with patients following generic prescribing instructions, with the potential for patients to take incorrect dosages or self-selected medicines. Further potential risks also include either the misuse, adverse side effects, or serious drug interactions. 

Following the findings, researchers suggested regulating prescription service apps to ensure adherence to national safety standards.