Term: Step-Down Approach

Glossary Definition

Last Updated: 2005-11-24

Definition:

The step-down approach proposes that patients should initially be treated with more powerful and costly alternatives, only being stepped-down to a less intensive intervention in strictly defined circumstances. The principal problem inherent in this approach is the universal application of a powerful and costly drug for patients for which less intensive interventions may have been adequate. Contrasting is the Step-Up Approach.

Related concepts 

• Drug Classification Systems

Related terms 

• Step-Up Approach
• Therapeutic Interchange Policy

References 

• Metge C, Kozyrskyj A, Dahl M, Yogendran M, Roos NP. Pharmaceuticals: Focussing on Appropriate Utilization. Winnipeg, MB: Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, 2003. [Report] [Summary] (View)
• Morgan SG, Kozyrskyj A, Metge C, Roos NP. Pharmaceuticals: Therapeutic interchange and pricing policies. Winnipeg, MB: Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, 2003. [Report] [Summary] (View)