Perception of drug risk in the database of Drug Information Centre in Bratislava.

Objective: The aim of the presented study was to analyse the types and quantity of inquiries received at Drug Information Centre in Bratislava during the period from May 1997 to May 2006. The study analyses also the profile of the users of the latter centre with focus on the perception of drug risk, adverse drug reactions, and drug interactions.

Background: The Drug Information Centre (Druginfo) was established in Slovak Republic as part of the Department of Pharmacology in May 1997.

Perception of potentially inappropriate medication in elderly patients by Slovak physicians.

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to determine the risk perception of potentially inappropriate drug treatment of elderly patients by Slovak physicians. In Slovakia, a list of such drugs is not available.

Methods: The study sample consisted of 600 patients aged > or =65 years hospitalized at the Department of Internal Medicine in a Slovak general hospital between 1 December 2003 and 31 March 2005.