What is a defining characteristic of specialty medications?

Specialty medications are indeed characterized by the need for additional attention and processes to manage their unique complexities. These medications often require specialized handling, storage, and administration, along with monitoring for efficacy and safety. This is because they are typically used to treat complex or chronic conditions, such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or HIV/AIDS, which necessitate a higher level of care.

The focus on additional management processes includes facilitating patient access, ensuring adherence, providing education about the medication, and monitoring for potential side effects or drug interactions. Healthcare providers must coordinate care among different specialties and may need to work closely with specialty pharmacies that are equipped to handle these medications safely and effectively.

While other characteristics, such as prescription by a specialist or routes of administration, may commonly be associated with specialty medications, they do not universally define them. Furthermore, the availability of generics does not apply to all specialty medications, as some may or may not have generic alternatives. Thus, the defining characteristic that stands out is indeed the additional attention and processes required for their effective management.