Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis presents a comprehensive analysis of drug-drug interactions (DDIs) in a hospital setting through a retrospective study. With the increasing use of multiple medications by patients, the risk of DDIs has become a significant concern in healthcare. The primary objective of this study is to identify, evaluate, and understand the prevalence and impact of DDIs on patient outcomes within a hospital environment. The research methodology involves the retrospective analysis of patient records from the hospital database over a specific period. A thorough literature review on DDIs, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and relevant healthcare guidelines forms the basis for this study. The study aims to investigate the types of DDIs, common drug combinations leading to interactions, associated adverse effects, and potential strategies for prevention and management. Results from the study are discussed in detail in Chapter Four, highlighting the prevalence of DDIs, the severity of interactions, and the clinical implications for patient care. The findings provide valuable insights into the patterns and trends of DDIs in a hospital setting, shedding light on the importance of proactive monitoring and intervention strategies to mitigate risks. The conclusion and summary in Chapter Five consolidate the key findings of the study, emphasizing the significance of understanding and addressing DDIs to optimize patient safety and healthcare outcomes. Recommendations for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and future research directions are also discussed, aiming to enhance awareness and improve DDI management practices in clinical settings. Overall, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge on DDIs by providing a detailed analysis of the phenomenon within a hospital setting. By identifying potential risk factors, adverse outcomes, and preventive measures, this study offers valuable insights that can inform clinical decision-making and improve patient care practices in the management of drug interactions.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Analysis of drug-drug interactions in a hospital setting: A retrospective study" aims to investigate the occurrence and impact of drug-drug interactions within a hospital environment. Drug-drug interactions refer to the effects that occur when two or more drugs are taken simultaneously, altering the way the drugs work in the body. These interactions can lead to adverse effects, reduced effectiveness of treatment, or even drug toxicity. This retrospective study will involve analyzing patient records and medication histories to identify instances of drug-drug interactions that have occurred within a specific hospital setting over a defined period. The study will focus on understanding the prevalence of these interactions, the types of drugs most commonly involved, and the potential consequences on patient health outcomes. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to explore existing knowledge on drug-drug interactions, their mechanisms, risk factors, and implications for patient care. This review will provide a theoretical framework for understanding the significance of the study and help identify gaps in current research that the project aims to address. The methodology for this study will involve data collection from hospital records, including information on patient demographics, medical conditions, prescribed medications, and any documented adverse effects or complications. Statistical analysis will be used to quantify the frequency and severity of drug-drug interactions, categorize them based on potential harm, and identify any patterns or trends that may influence the occurrence of these interactions. The findings of this study will be presented in detail, discussing the prevalence of drug-drug interactions observed, the specific drug combinations most commonly associated with adverse effects, and the clinical implications for patient safety and healthcare delivery. The discussion will also explore potential strategies for mitigating the risks of drug-drug interactions, such as improved medication reconciliation processes, electronic prescribing systems, and pharmacist-led interventions. In conclusion, this retrospective study on drug-drug interactions in a hospital setting aims to enhance our understanding of this critical issue and its impact on patient care. By identifying common patterns of drug interactions and their potential consequences, the study seeks to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers on strategies to improve medication safety and optimize patient outcomes in clinical practice.