Efficacy of Oral Cancer Drugs Reduced by Concurrent Medications

A new study presented at the American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics meet in Washington suggests that the effectiveness of oral cancer drugs can be reduced due to other medications taken by the patients. The study was conducted by Maryland based research firm Medco Research Institute who analyzed data of nearly 12,000 cancer patients taking one of nine orally ingested oncology treatments. The researchers found that nearly 75 percent of the cancer patients may be using other medications that reduce the effectiveness of oral cancer drugs.

“The fact that about one quarter to 75 percent of patients on these oral drugs may not be getting the full benefit of their treatment or may in fact be putting their health at further risk because of another medication they are taking is concerning. Our oncology pharmacists are able to alert doctors about potential medication interactions through our Drug Utilization Review programs that have a complete picture of their prescription drugs”, Medco chief Dr Milayna Subar said.


Source-Medindia