Chronic Kidney Disease: A Review of Drug Related Problems and Medication Management in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition characterized by abnormalities in kidney structure or function that persist over time. The kidneys play an essential role in the elimination of drugs and their metabolites; therefore, impairment of kidney function can significantly affect drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. CKD patients are at increased risk of DRPs because of altered renal function, polypharmacy, multiple comorbidities and complicated medication regimens. Common DRPs in CKD include inappropriate drug selection, incorrect dosage, inappropriate dosing frequency, untreated indications, unnecessary drug therapy, drug-drug interactions, adverse drug reactions, medication duplication and non-adherence. Polypharmacy is common among CKD patients because several diseases may need to be treated simultaneously. Although multiple medicines may be clinically necessary, increasing medication burden can increase the possibility of drug-drug interactions, adverse effects, medication errors and poor adherence. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health concern due to its high morbidity, mortality, hospitalization rates, healthcare costs, and reduced life expectancy. Globally, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one of the leading causes of mortality.