Drug interactions in transplant patients: what everyone should know

Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens. 2009 Sep;18(5):404-11. doi: 10.1097/MNH.0b013e32832edcb2.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Adverse events due to drug-drug interactions remain a challenge in the postsurgical care of transplant recipients. A combination of potent and selective immunosuppressive drugs, which have a narrow therapeutic index, with medications for the treatment of comorbidities such as dyslipidemia, infection, psychiatric conditions, and hypertension, can lead to life-threatening drug-drug interactions.

Recent findings: There are a number of important drug-drug interactions which are important for physicians to consider. It is critical to understand the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of drug-drug interactions, their potential impact on patient care, and the management strategies.

Summary: Close therapeutic drug monitoring and evaluation of drug-specific side effects continue to be an important key to minimize adverse events due to drug-drug interactions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents / adverse effects
  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects
  • Drug Interactions*
  • HIV Protease Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Kidney Transplantation / physiology*
  • Mycophenolic Acid / adverse effects
  • Mycophenolic Acid / analogs & derivatives
  • Pharmacokinetics
  • Psychotropic Drugs / adverse effects

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Anticonvulsants
  • HIV Protease Inhibitors
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Psychotropic Drugs
  • Mycophenolic Acid