Abstract

The growing use of polypharmacy in modern medicine increases the risk of drug-drug interactions (DDIs), which can significantly impact patient safety and therapeutic outcomes. Drug-drug interactions may occur at both the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) levels. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms and clinical significance of PK and PD interactions. Pharmacokinetic interactions primarily involve alterations in the absorption, distribution, metabolism, or excretion of drugs, while pharmacodynamic interactions influence the therapeutic effects of drugs when they act on the same or different receptor sites. Understanding the intricacies of DDIs is crucial for improving drug safety and efficacy. This article also discusses the strategies for identifying, preventing, and managing DDIs, highlighting the role of healthcare professionals and clinical decision support systems in minimizing adverse effects.