Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
[Drug-drug interactions in multicentre polypathological polymedicated patients]
J Galindo-Ocaña1, M V Gil-Navarro, J S García-Morillo
1Unidad Clínica de Atención Medica Integral, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospitales Universitarios Virgen del Rocío, Sevilla, España. galinx2@gmail.com <galinx2@gmail.com>
Nearly all patients with multiple chronic diseases experience drug-drug interactions (DDIs). A collaborative approach to managing these DDIs can improve prescription safety and patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Geriatrics
Context:
- Polypathological patients on multiple drug therapy are at high risk for drug-drug interactions (DDIs).
- Primary care settings present unique challenges for managing complex medication regimens.
- Understanding the prevalence and predictors of DDIs is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of relevant drug-drug interactions (DDIs) in polypathological patients receiving multiple medications.
- To identify factors associated with the occurrence of DDIs in this population.
- To assess the acceptance of a DDI reporting program by prescribing physicians.
Summary:
- A cross-sectional study identified 1053 DDIs among 283 polypathological patients, with 45% deemed relevant.
- Ischemic heart disease, multiple hospital admissions, and polypharmacy were associated with increased DDIs.
- Physicians favorably accepted 84% of DDI recommendations provided by the pharmacy department.
Impact:
- Almost all polypathological, polymedicated patients are exposed to at least one DDI.
- Targeted interventions and personalized recommendations can improve the risk-benefit ratio of drug prescriptions.
- Collaborative efforts between pharmacists and physicians are essential for optimizing medication management in complex patients.
Related Concept Videos
Drug toxicity: Drug–Drug Interaction
Pharmacokinetics: Drug–Drug Interactions
Pharmacogenetic Phenotypes: Alterations in Pharmacokinetics, Drug Targets and Biologic Milieu
Pharmacogenetics of Drug Metabolism: Overview
Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Pharmacogenetics of Drug Targets: β₂-Adrenergic Receptors, Apo E, Thymidylate Synthase
