Accuracy and completeness of drug information in Wikipedia.
Web 2.0 technologies, where users participate in content production, are increasingly used as informational and educational resources. Wikipedia is frequently cited by students in the healthcare professions. This study compared the accuracy and completeness of drug information in Wikipedia to Medscape Drug Reference, a traditionally-edited resource. Wikipedia answered fewer questions [40.0% vs. 82.5%] (p<0.001) and was less complete (p=0.00076) than Medscape. No gross errors were found in Wikipedia and its content has improved over time.
Clauson
Kevin A
KA
Nova Southeastern University, College of Pharmacy, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, USA.
Polen
Hyla H
HH
Boulos
Maged N K
MN
Dzenowagis
Joan H
JH
D054626:Consumer Health Information / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004346:Drug Information Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D020407:Internet / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008508:Medication Errors / Q000517:prevention & control; D014481:United States