IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS OF ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS ASSOCIATED WITH CANCER CHEMOTHERAPY IN HOSPITALIZED PATIENTS

Objective: To analyze the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with chemotherapeutic drugs and study its management. Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out on hospitalized patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy. The identified ADRs were assessed for causality, severity and preventability. Results: Among 120 patients followed 100 patients developed 161 ADRs. Most common ADRs were anemia, leucopenia, mucositis fever, and chills. As per the WHO causality assessment 87(54.0%) ADRs were probable whereas with the Naranjo's scale 98(60.9%) were probable. Moderate reactions were 59.62%. Majority 122 (75.8%) of the ADRs were not preventable. Most of ADRs were implicated with cisplatin followed by 5-Fluro-uracil and the combination drugs which included FAC (Flurouracil, adriyamycin, cyclophosphamide) regimen, Paclitaxel, and Carboplatin (PC) regimen.Conclusion: Patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy have higher chances to develop ADRs. Those patients on chemotherapy with cisplatin followed by 5-Fu and combination drugs which include FAC and PC regimen should be strictly monitored for the early detection and prompt management of the ADR to prevent morbidity and mortality.Keywords: Adverse drug reactions, Cancer, Chemotherapy, Predictable, Management