How do drug-disease interactions occur?

Drug-disease interactions occur when a disease alters the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of a medication, impacting how the drug behaves in the body. When a disease hinders how medications travel through the body, it can affect absorption, distribution, metabolism, or excretion. For example, a condition that impairs liver or kidney function can lead to increased levels of a medication in the bloodstream, raising the risk of side effects or toxicity.

Understanding this interaction is crucial for medication aides, as it underscores the importance of considering a patient’s medical history and current conditions when administering drugs. This knowledge helps ensure that medications are effective and safe for the patient’s unique health situation.