Point-Prevalence of Antimicrobial-Related Potential Drug-Drug Interactions in Hospitalized Older Adults: A
Yusuf Arslan1, Esra Gürbüz2, Sevil Alkan3
1Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Batman Training and Research Hospital, Batman 72070, Turkey.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|February 13, 2026
Summary
Potential drug-drug interactions (pDDIs) are common in older adults receiving antimicrobial therapy. This study found over 40% of geriatric patients experienced pDDIs, highlighting the need for preventative strategies.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Polypharmacy is increasing in geriatric populations, elevating the risk of potential drug-drug interactions (pDDIs).
- Hospitalized older adults are particularly vulnerable to pDDIs, especially when undergoing antimicrobial therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the real-world incidence of pDDIs linked to antimicrobial use in hospitalized elderly patients.
- To identify specific antimicrobials and patient factors associated with increased pDDI risk.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter study screened hospitalized patients aged 65 and older for pDDIs using the Lexicomp® Drug Interaction Online Database.
- Data on polypharmacy, hyperpolypharmacy, and antimicrobial use were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Out of 663 older adults, 42% experienced at least one antimicrobial-related pDDI.
- Ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, and colistin were associated with high rates of D-type pDDIs.
- Increased drug count, longer hospital stays, and Infectious Disease department involvement correlated with higher pDDI incidence.
Conclusions:
- Antimicrobial-related pDDIs are a significant concern in hospitalized geriatric patients, mirroring overall pDDI rates.
- Development of targeted strategies is crucial to mitigate pDDI risks during antimicrobial prescribing for older adults.
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