Drug Interactions—A Review

The mechanisms of drug interactions are varied and may include herbal supplements and foods, as well as other drugs. As the number of drug interactions increase, it is important to have on-hand drug interaction resources available to ensure patient safety. Several current comprehensive references include Lexi-Interact (published by Lexicomp), DRUG–REAX (published by Micromedex), the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (published by the Pharmacists' Letter and Physician's Letter), and the cyp450 resource http://medicine.iupui.edu/flockhart/table.htm. Many of these references are available in online or PDA versions. Being informed about the potential for drug interactions is the best way to prevent them from occurring. Moreover, the ED physician must be able to recognize drug interactions to identify and remove the offending agent. Understanding the mechanisms of drug interactions will assist all clinicians in avoiding these serious, often preventable, events.