Patients knowledge of adverse drug reactions

Aims: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) account for 3.2–7% of acute hospital admissions. The purpose of this study was to examine knowledge of ADRs among patients taking potentially toxic medications. Methods: We studied warfarin, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin. 399 patients were admitted on medical call during study periods in September 2002 and May 2003.100 gave their ADR perceptions using visual analogue scales. Responses are compared against a medical control group. Results: Corticosteroids were ranked most dangerous by patients [median score (25 th-75 th centiles): 5.4 (2.9–8.74)]. Controls ranked NSAIDs as highest risk [6.22 (4–7.45)]. Patients ranked NSAIDs as low risk [2.1 (0.7–4.85)]. The groups disagreed on the most common ADRs for PPIs, corticosteroids and NSAIDs. Bleeding risk was ranked as the most common ADR for warfarin by patients [8.58 (3.26–9.45)] and controls [8.8 (7.55–9.3)]. 24% (8/33) of patients taking PPIs scored greater than 5 (moderate risk) for gastritis as an ADR of this medication. Conclusions: We demonstrate major differences between patients and medical professionals' perceived risk of ADRs. This is the first study to assess patients who were prescribed potentially toxic medication. We suggest that increased patient education can increase patient awareness of ADRs.