Watch for drug-drug reactions

Cancer patients frequently receive many prescription drugs for cancer and other health conditions. In a recent survey of 405 cancer patients, 276 potential adverse drug interactions between incompatible drugs were reported and 109 patients actually experienced drug reactions. Most potential drug interactions (87%) involved non-anticancer agents such as warfarin (blood thinner), antihypertensive drugs, steroids, and anticonvulsants. There were many drug duplications. [Journal National Cancer Institute 99: 592-600, 2007]