Paper Contents
Abstract
Abstract:Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) are unwanted or harmful effects of medications, posing significant threats to patient safety and public health. ADRs contribute significantly to healthcare expenses and resource use, and they are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally.This comprehensive review aims to provide an in-depth examination of the epidemiology, mechanisms, risk factors, and prevention strategies for ADRs.The epidemiology of ADRs is alarming, with 10-20% of hospitalized patients experiencing ADRs, resulting in 100,000-200,000 annual deaths in the US. Type A (dose-dependent) and Type B (idiosyncratic) reactions are most common, with patient factors (age, renal function), drug interactions, and dosing errors contributing to ADRs. Polypharmacy, comorbidities, and genetic predispositions increase ADR risk.ADRs result from complex interactions between drug, patient, and environmental factors. Strategies to minimize ADRs include medication reconciliation, dose adjustment, monitoring (lab tests, vital signs), patient education, alternative therapies, pharmacogenomics, and enhanced pharmacovigilance.Improving medication safety through evidence-based practices, enhancing pharmacovigilance, and developing personalized medicine approaches are crucial for reducing ADRs. Policy makers, healthcare professionals, and researchers must prioritize ADR prevention and management.Keywords: Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs), Medication Safety, Pharmacovigilance, Drug Toxicity, Side Effects
Copyright
Copyright © 2024 Ranvir Sudam Charwande. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
