Evaluation of potential drug-drug interactions in a pediatric population

Abstract

Aim: A large number of medications are prescribed in pediatric clinics and this leads to the development of drug-drug interactions (DDI) that may complicate the course of the disease. The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence of potential drug-drug interactions, to categorize main drug classes involved in severe drug-drug interactions and to highlight clinically relevant DDIs in a pediatric population. Material and Methods: A total of 1500 prescriptions during the 12-month study period were retrospectively reviewed; 510 prescriptions that comprised two or more drugs were included in study. The presence of potential drug-drug interactions was identified by using the Lexi-Interact database and categorized according to severity: A (unknown), B (minor), C (moderate), D (major), and X (contraindicated). Results: There were 1498 drugs in 510 prescriptions; 253 of these (49.6%) included 2 drugs, 228 (44.7%) included 3-4 drugs, and 29 (5.6%) included >= 5 drugs. A total of 634 (42%) potential drug-drug interactions were idenfied. Among those, 271 (42.7%) were categorized as A, 284 (44.8%) as B, 53 (8.4%) as C, and 26 (4.1%) as D. There was no potential risk for X interaction. Anti-infectives (36%) were the most commonly prescribed drug classes involved in C and/or D categories. Clarithromycin was the most commonly interacting agent that interfered with budesonide. Conclusion: It is noteworthy that a significant number of drugs causing potential drug-drug interactions are prescribed together in pediatric clinics. Increasing the awareness of physicians on this issue will prevent potential complications and ensure patient safety.