Drug interactions in geriatric patients with cardiovascular diseases in Indonesia: A cross-sectional study using the Medscape Drug Interaction Checker

Background: Polypharmacy in geriatric patients with cardiovascular diseases poses significant clinical challenges in Indonesian healthcare settings. Objective: To analyse drug interactions in geriatric patients with cardiovascular diseases using the Medscape Drug Interaction Checker at a tertiary care hospital in Indonesia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 geriatric patients with cardiovascular diseases at Ulin Banjarmasin Hospital. Drug interactions were analysed using the Medscape Drug Interaction Checker, with multivariable logistic regression and propensity score matching employed for confounding control. Results: A significant positive correlation was observed between the number of prescribed medications and drug interactions (Spearman's rho = 0.225, p < 0.05). Of the identified interactions, 73.33% required close monitoring, 13.33% were severe, and 13.33% were minor. Predominantly observed. Patients aged ≥ 80 years had a higher risk of drug interactions compared to those aged 60-69 years (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.3-2.5). Conclusion: Drug interactions are highly prevalent among Indonesian geriatric cardiovascular patients, particularly in those with multiple medications and advanced age.