Potentially clinically relevant drug interactions in post-stroke rehabilitation patients: a prospective study

Post-stroke rehabilitation patients require complex pharmacotherapy, increasing their risk of potential drug-drug interactions (pDDIs). The study aimed to assess the prevalence, types, and predictors of clinically relevant pDDIs in post-stroke patients during rehabilitation. This prospective observational study was conducted at the Institute for Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation, and Orthopaedic Surgery. Clinically relevant pDDIs were identified using Lexi-Drugs. The study included 217 post-stroke rehabilitation patients (86.2% ischaemic stroke). At least one clinically relevant pDDI was present in 96.3% of ischaemic and 76.7% of haemorrhagic stroke patients (p < 0.001). Ischaemic stroke history was an independent predictor for higher pDDI risk (OR 5.3; p < 0.05). The study revealed a high prevalence of potentially clinically relevant pDDIs in post-stroke rehabilitation patients, particularly among those with ischaemic stroke. Additionally, comorbidities such as pneumonia or constipation increased the risk of pDDIs occurrence. Given the complexity of post-stroke pharmacotherapy, systematic screening and management strategies are crucial to minimise the risk of preventable adverse drug interactions and improve rehabilitation out-comes.