Investigating dangerous drug interactions in older adults in emergency departments

Significant high order drug interactions in the emergency department setting among older patient population

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-10991024

This study is looking at how older adults, who often take several medications, can stay safer by finding out which combinations of their medicines might cause problems, so we can help them avoid trips to the hospital.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10991024 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on older adults aged 65 and above who often take multiple medications, increasing their risk of harmful drug interactions. By analyzing real-world data from health insurance claims and electronic health records, the study aims to identify high-order drug-drug interactions that lead to serious adverse drug events, such as emergency department visits or hospitalizations. The research will also assess the safety of specific combinations of medications commonly used by older patients, including anticoagulants, antidiabetic agents, and opioids. Ultimately, the goal is to improve medication safety and reduce hospital visits for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who are currently taking multiple medications.

Not a fit: Patients who are not taking multiple medications or are under the age of 65 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer medication practices for older adults, reducing the risk of adverse drug events and hospitalizations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing drug interactions in older adults can significantly improve patient outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.