[Drug interactions. 2].

AJN ▼ April 2001 ▼ Supplement 23 O ncology patients are at high risk for drug–drug interactions for many reasons. Multimodal therapy that includes chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or biologic response modifiers is standard for treating various forms of cancer. Individually, each modality has its own side effects, which when used in combination can be compounded. In addition, cancer patients sometimes receive immunosuppressive agents as treatment or take medications to counter side effects related to therapy. Preexisting conditions could require additional pharmacologic intervention. Cancer patients may have compromised organ function secondary to the disease or to concomitant illnesses. Patients with impaired liver or kidney function are at especially high risk for drug–drug interactions. It’s important that nurses caring for oncology patients understand these interactions, their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects, and the management of their potential side effects.