Determination of drug–drug interaction in breast cancer patients receiving doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide regimen

Abstract

Introduction Drug interactions constitute a significant issue in cancer treatment. Therefore, it is important to assess and analyze all cancer patients’ therapies prior to the initiation of chemotherapy. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted at the Near East University Hospital Oncology Department located in North Cyprus between June 2019 and December 2021. The aim of the study was to determine the nature, type, and frequency of potential drug–drug interactions in breast cancer patients receiving a doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide regimen using Drugs.com, Lexicomp, and Micromedex databases while comparing the three electronic databases, according to the frequency, mechanism, and severity of drug–drug interactions. Results The study included 40 patients (44.4%) out of 90 patients diagnosed with breast cancer, as 50 patients (55.6%) who did not match the criteria were excluded. According to the Lexicomp database, 12 patients (30%) with breast cancer had 14 potential drug–drug interactions, according to the Drugs.com database, 15 patients (37.5%) with breast cancer had 22 potential drug–drug interactions, and according to the Micromedex database, 13 patients (32.5%) with breast cancer had 15 potential drug–drug interactions. Pearson correlation indicated a weak association (Lexicomp: r = 0.475, p = 0.002 and Micromedex: r = 0.491, p = 0.001) and a moderate association (Drugs.com: r = 0.500, p = 0.001) between potential drug–drug interactions and five or more medications. Conclusion This study showed that the Drugs.com database detected more potential drug interactions between chemotherapy and nonchemotherapy than the Lexicomp and Micromedex databases. Comprehensive drug review, use of electronic health record systems, and collaboration between healthcare providers such as pharmacists and physicians may be necessary strategies to minimize potential drug–drug interactions and optimize cancer treatment in patients with breast cancer.