Use of Computer Drug-Drug Interaction Program for Detection of Adverse Drug Reactions and Related Therapeutic Problems

Pharmacies currently using computers to detect drug-drug interactions may not be fully utilizing the computers' programs. Potential drug-disease interactions and some potential adverse drug reactions not traditionally defined as interactions can be detected by extending the basic concept of cross-referencing. For example, certain clinically important ADRs are readily detected by cross-referencing drugs which are often used to treat the results of specific ADRs with certain causative agents.

The potential therapeutic implications of such a system when restricted to clinically significant ADRs can be readily appreciated, especially in situations where the pharmacist's time in patient-care areas is limited. This concept is currently being practiced at Bayfront Medical Center, and has added a new dimension to the clinical services provided by the pharmacy. It seems likely that detection of therapeutic situations in this manner may be appropriate in other hospital settings.