Assessment of drug interactions among patients with heart failure, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia at Tanjung Pura district hospital, Langkat

Abstract

Patients with chronic diseases such as heart failure, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia often receive complex combination therapies, which may lead to potential drug interactions that affect the effectiveness and safety of treatment. Evaluating drug interactions is essential to minimize the risk of adverse effects and ensure the achievement of optimal therapeutic outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the types, severity levels, and frequency of drug interactions occurring in patients with heart failure, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia at the Tanjung Pura Regional Public Hospital, Langkat Regency. This research employed a descriptive observational design with a retrospective approach based on patients’ medical records who underwent combination therapy during the period of January–December 2024. Drug interaction data were analyzed using the Drug Interaction Checker (Drugs.com) and classified according to their severity levels (minor, moderate, major). Of the 120 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 85 patients (70.8%) experienced potential drug interactions. Interactions of moderate severity were found in 52% of cases, minor interactions in 35%, and major interactions in 13%. The most frequently involved drug pairs were furosemide–enalapril, simvastatin–amlodipine, and aspirin–clopidogrel. Elderly age and the use of ≥5 drugs were significantly associated with an increased risk of interactions (p < 0.05). The incidence of drug interactions among patients with heart failure, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia remains relatively high at Tanjung Pura Regional Public Hospital. Active involvement of pharmacists in conducting routine evaluations of drug regimens, providing patient education, and collaborating with medical staff is crucial to prevent the negative impacts of drug interactions on patient safety.