Using computer databases to predict and avoid drug-drug interactions in the cancer patient requiring psychotropics

Abstract

Psychotropic drug interactions with medical prescriptions is an essential knowledge base for the practicing oncologist as well as the psychiatrist. This paper describes a method to identify, understand, and develop a conceptual framework to codify psychotropic-medical drug interactions; a systemic approach for updating this key database, and a software system to assist in the management of this ever unfolding sphere of knowledge; and, a set of instruments to provide ongoing developments in this important area. Since many of the trials either for oncological medications or psychotropic drugs did not include studies comparing these two domains, their interactions often only become known with their utilization and subsequent reporting.