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Drug Interactions in Clinical Practice
Abstract
The existence of numerous drugs available today for clinical management of patients require consideration of their potential interactions - alteration of the effects of one drug by the concurrent or prior administration of one or more drugs (drug-drug interactions). There could also be alteration of the effects of a drug by food (drug – food interactions). Ultimately the effects of one or more of the drugs are increased or decreased. Unwanted interactions can cause adverse drug reactions or therapeutic failure.
Since in clinical practice, it is often difficult to predict the clinical significance of known or suggested drug interactions, the possibility of problems developing must be viewed in perspective.
Therefore, if an interaction appears likely, therapeutic alternatives should be considered when prescribing and administering drugs to patients.
Key Words: drug interactions, therapeutic effects, adverse effects, clinical practice.
Nigerian Medical Practitioner Vol.46(4) 2004: 80-83
Since in clinical practice, it is often difficult to predict the clinical significance of known or suggested drug interactions, the possibility of problems developing must be viewed in perspective.
Therefore, if an interaction appears likely, therapeutic alternatives should be considered when prescribing and administering drugs to patients.
Key Words: drug interactions, therapeutic effects, adverse effects, clinical practice.
Nigerian Medical Practitioner Vol.46(4) 2004: 80-83
