Identifying Drug Therapy Problems

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What is an adverse drug reaction?

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An adverse drug reaction (ADR) is an unwanted or harmful reaction experienced following the administration of a medication. It can occur at normal doses and may require discontinuation of the drug.

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What does non-adherence mean in the context of drug therapy?

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Non-adherence refers to a patient's failure to take medications as prescribed, which can lead to ineffective treatment and worsening of the condition.

Front

What is meant by an ineffective drug?

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An ineffective drug is a medication that does not produce the desired therapeutic effect in treating a condition, often requiring a change in therapy.

Front

How can cost impact medication adherence?

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Cost can be a significant barrier to medication adherence, as patients may stop taking their prescribed medications if they cannot afford them.

Front

What is the importance of monitoring in drug therapy?

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Monitoring is essential to assess the effectiveness of a drug, detect any adverse reactions, and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Front

What is the role of dosage in drug therapy?

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Dosage refers to the amount of medication prescribed. An incorrect dosage can lead to ineffective treatment or increased risk of adverse effects.

Front

What are common signs of an adverse drug reaction?

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Common signs include rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, gastrointestinal disturbances, and other unexpected symptoms following medication use.

Front

What factors can contribute to non-adherence?

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Factors include forgetfulness, misunderstanding of the treatment plan, side effects, cost, and lack of perceived need for the medication.

Front

What should be done if a drug is deemed ineffective?

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If a drug is ineffective, a healthcare provider may consider changing the medication, adjusting the dosage, or adding another therapy.

Front

What is the significance of lab monitoring in drug therapy?

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Lab monitoring helps evaluate the effectiveness of treatment, check for potential side effects, and ensure that drug levels are within the therapeutic range.