Suitability of APINCH high-risk medications use in diabetes mellitus.

Abstract

High-risk medicines are those that carry a high risk of causing fatal or serious injury if used in error. The globally used Institute for Safe Medication Practices s list of high-risk medicines refers to the general population without taking into account special populations, such as diabetic. By means of the literature search, I identified several not previously included medicines that have the potential to cause harm to diabetes patients when used inappropriately, including fluoroquinolones, targeted cancer therapies, and tramadol. Additionally, I identified risks that the included medicines may carry for diabetes patients, such as interactions between warfarin and sulfonylureas that may cause severe hypoglycemia or potentiation of gastrointestinal side effects with co-administration of opioids and various hypoglycemics. The proposed inclusions and respective recommendations are to be taken into consideration in diabetes care and help with the creation of high-risk medicine lists adapted to diabetes patients on an individual hospital level.