NOVEMBER 2023
Investigate the underlying mechanisms and risk factors associated with adverse reactions to medications that manifest on the skin, aiming to improve patient safety
1Fozia Iqbal, 2Khurram Shahzad, 3Kashif Lodhi, 4Ali Raza, 5Umar Ali, 6Dr Shahnaz Fatima
1Victoria University, New Zealand
2PIMS
3Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences. Università Politécnica delle Marche Via Brecce Bianche 10, 60131 Ancona (AN) Italy
4PIMS
5PIMS
6Associate professor Sahara Medical college Narowal
ABSTRACT
Background: Adverse drug reactions affecting the skin can lead to severe discomfort, morbidity, and, in some cases, mortality. Understanding the intricate mechanisms driving these reactions is crucial for improving patient outcomes and minimizing the occurrence of adverse events. This study builds upon the existing knowledge by investigating the multifaceted aspects of adverse reactions on the skin caused by medications.
Aim: The primary aim of this research is to unravel the complex mechanisms underlying adverse reactions on the skin resulting from medication use. By identifying the contributing factors and risk elements, this study seeks to enhance the current understanding of these reactions and provide evidence-based recommendations to optimize prescribing practices.
Methodology: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather relevant data on adverse reactions to medications affecting the skin. The review included clinical studies, case reports, and pharmacological analyses. Mechanistic pathways were explored, encompassing immune-mediated responses, idiosyncratic reactions, and pharmacogenetic predispositions. Risk factors such as age, sex, genetic variations, concomitant medications, and pre-existing skin conditions were examined to assess their influence on the likelihood of adverse skin reactions.
Results: The findings revealed a diverse array of mechanisms through which medications can trigger adverse skin reactions. Immune-mediated hypersensitivity reactions, alterations in drug metabolism pathways, and genetic predispositions were identified as key contributors. Furthermore, certain risk factors, such as specific drug classes, polypharmacy, and individual genetic variations, were associated with an increased susceptibility to skin reactions.
Conclusion: This study enhances our understanding of the underlying mechanisms and risk factors that contribute to adverse reactions on the skin caused by medications. The insights gained from this research have the potential to improve patient safety by guiding healthcare professionals in making more informed prescribing decisions. By recognizing the complexities involved, healthcare providers can tailor treatments to individual patient profiles, ultimately reducing the occurrence of adverse skin reactions and optimizing therapeutic outcomes.
Keywords: Adverse reactions, medications, skin manifestations, patient safety, prescribing practices, mechanisms, risk factors, immune-mediated reactions, pharmacogenetics.