Potential drug-food interactions in patients hospitalized in the Cardiology Unit

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze potential Drug-Food Interactions identified in prescriptions of patients admitted to the Cardiology Unit of a university hospital. Methods This is a descriptive, cross-sectional quantitative study carried out in the Cardiology Unit of a university hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Data collection took place in archived medical records of hospitalized patients between August and September, 2016. Results In each prescription, there were on average 7.5 drugs mentioned (Standard Deviation of 2.1). Most were tablets (93%) and antihypertensive drugs (40%). Two hundred and fifty two potential Drug-Food Interactions were identified. Acetylsalicylic acid and omeprazole were the most potentially interactive drugs. Conclusion Drug-Food Interactions occur with commonly used drugs, for example omeprazole and acetylsalicylic acid. However, health teams do not know or identify a substantial part of interactions. This factor leads to an exposure to risks related to changes in drug response and patient safety.