Medication-induced adverse effects: important concepts for the hand therapist.

Area of Science:

• Physical Therapy
• Pharmacology
• Musculoskeletal Health

Background:

• Commonly prescribed medications can cause severe physical adverse effects.
• These effects include myopathy, fracture, tendon rupture, and neuropathy.
• Medication use is increasing, leading to more patients with physical complaints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of therapists in managing medication-induced physical adverse effects.
• To emphasize the need for exercise adjustments in patients experiencing drug-related musculoskeletal issues.
• To inform therapists about serious musculoskeletal risks associated with common medications.

Main Methods:

• This is a narrative review.
• The review synthesizes information on medication-induced musculoskeletal adverse effects.
• It focuses on the implications for physical therapists.

Main Results:

• Medications can alter muscle, tendon, cartilage, and bone structure and function.
• Therapists play a key role in identifying, reporting, and managing these adverse effects.
• Exercise regimen adjustments are essential for patient safety and care.

Conclusions:

• Therapists must be vigilant in screening for medication-induced myopathies, fractures, neuropathies, and tendinopathies.
• Proactive risk reduction strategies are vital.
• Understanding serious musculoskeletal effects of medications is critical for therapists to provide adequate care.