Aspects influencing patients' preferences for the management of drug-drug interactions: A focus group study

OBJECTIVE: The management of drug-drug interactions (DDIs) involves a complex risk-benefit assessment, in which patients' preferences should be taken into account. The aim of this study was to examine the aspects influencing patients' preferences with regard to DDI management options. METHODS: A qualitative study consisting of five focus groups with patients chronically using cardiovascular drugs was conducted. Key questions concerned preferences regarding DDI management options for a provided fictitious DDI. Thematic analysis of the verbatim transcripts was performed. RESULTS: Despite their limited knowledge with respect to DDIs, patients easily chose a management option for the presented DDI. When additional information was provided, preferences showed to be fluid. Ten interdependent aspects influencing preferences were derived from patients' argumentations: risk perception, fear, acceptance of uncertainty, openness to change, willingness to take risk, trust in health care professional, financial & practical burdens, health condition, experience, and knowledge & assumptions. CONCLUSION: Patients' preferences regarding DDI management options were often determined by provided information. Preferences were dependent on an interplay of diverse aspects. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Tailored provision of information and individualized counseling is needed for active patient involvement in DDI decision making