A Comprehensive Examination of Drug-Drug and Drug-Disease Interactions in Polypharmacy: Implications for Diagnostic Imaging Outcomes in Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of multimorbidity among the elderly population has led to increased instances of polypharmacy, which significantly raises the risk of drug-drug interactions (DDIs) and drug-disease interactions (DDIs). These interactions can adversely affect patient outcomes, particularly in diagnostic imaging settings.

Methods: This systematic review sought to evaluate the relationship between drug-disease interactions and the risk of hospitalization and mortality in middle-aged and older adults. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and others, to identify relevant studies published up to 2023. The review focused on studies that examined inappropriate prescriptions and their implications for patient health outcomes.

Results: The findings reveal a notable correlation between specific drug-disease interactions and increased risks of hospitalization and mortality. For instance, the concurrent use of certain antihypertensives in frail elderly patients was associated with a heightened risk of adverse events. However, the review also highlighted a lack of standardized definitions for drug-disease interactions, which complicates the comparison of outcomes across studies.

Conclusion: The existence of drug-disease interactions is a significant concern in managing patients with multimorbidity, particularly in hospital settings. This review underscores the urgent need for standardized criteria to identify and manage these interactions effectively. Future research should focus on developing targeted interventions to mitigate the risks associated with polypharmacy, ultimately improving patient safety and outcomes in clinical practice.