Abstract

EVALUATION OF DRUG-DRUG INTERACTIONS IN PATIENTS ADMITTED TO EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT OF A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL

Vamshi D.*, Varsha K.*, Jahangir Alom, Biplab Chakraborty, Vinuth Chikkamath, J. S. Venkatesh

Abstract

Objective: The object of the study was to identify, evaluate and analyze the drug-drug interaction found in the prescriptions from emergency department at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Methodology: This is a prospective and observational based study was undertaken in emergency ward for a period of six months to identify, evaluate and analyze the drug-drug interactions. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee of SCS College of Pharmacy, Harapanahalli. A total of one hundred and fifty cases were reviewed and details such as demographics, past medical and medication history, prescribed drugs and drug interactions are recorded. Results: Overall 150 patients were enrolled in the study. In our study, a total of 286 interactions were seen in 150 patient, Out of 286 DDIs, the most commonly involved classes of drug was antibiotic 15.94%, diuretics 141(13.06%), H2 Blockers 117 (10.84%), NSAIDs 106 (9.8%2), and others. Frequently occurring major DDIs was ondansetron + tramadol, aspirin + enoxaparin combination of drugs in the study. Conclusion: In the study, out of 286 DDIs most frequently occurring major DDIs was ondansetron and tramadol combination. Majority of the patients received polypharmacy in emergency department which is major cause of DDIs. The result of this study emphasized the active role of clinical pharmacist in detecting and managing different types of DDIs.

Keywords: Drug-drug interactions, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Emergency department, Polypharmacy.