Gabexate mesilate and acute pancreatitis: an experience of evidence based drug information for improving rational drug use.

Introduction: Gabexate mesylate is a drug marketed only in Italy and Japan and it is considered an essential drug in the treatment of acute pancreatitis. A periodic revision and evaluation of drug utilization in our hospital demonstrated that the dosages and indications of Gabexate mesilate (GM) did not follow those settled by the National Health System and by our Hospital Formulary. We therefore promoted and conducted a program of drug information and meetings with the physicians in order to improve the correct utilisation of GM and identify potential problems.