How to Avoid Drug Interactions

Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) can have the desired synergistic effect in the treatment of certain diseases but can also cause side effects that could lead to undesirable treatment outcomes and should therefore be prevented by adequate interventions. DDIs are a common problem in pharmacotherapy and a preventable medication error. Evaluation of DDIs’ clinical relevance is important for timely interventions. The incidence of clinically significant DDIs is on the rise. Preventing and detecting DDIs is crucial for conducting individualized, optimal and rational pharmacotherapy. Interventions usually include closer monitoring or pharmacotherapy modification. Choosing appropriate interventions and models can reduce the incidence of drug interactions. A clinical pharmacist has a unique opportunity to timely identify potential clinically significant drug interactions. In collaboration with the physician and the patient, clinical pharmacists can take timely preventative measures in order to manage potential DDIs.