Welcome to "Fundamentals of Drug Interactions and Polypharmacy," an international MOOC designed to equip a broad audience with essential knowledge and practical tools for enhancing patient safety. As the prevalence of complex drug regimens and polypharmacy continues to rise, especially among aging populations and individuals with chronic illnesses, the ability to identify, evaluate, and manage drug interactions has become more critical than ever. This course discusses how various medications can interact with each other, as well as with herbal products and over-the-counter remedies, and provides clinically relevant strategies to reduce risks and improve therapeutic outcomes.

Through a combination of concise video lectures, interactive case studies, and practical decision-making tools, you will gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind drug interactions and why polypharmacy increases patient risk. We will explore topics from the basic concepts of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions to the specific challenges faced by special populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic conditions. This course emphasizes the importance of communication and interprofessional collaboration among healthcare professionals and empowers the general public—including caregivers and patients—with the knowledge to make more informed healthcare decisions.

This course is delivered through a self-paced, asynchronous learning format, allowing you to engage with the material on your own schedule. Learning is facilitated through expert-led video lectures, interactive quizzes to reinforce key concepts, supplementary readings, and real-life case studies. You will also have the opportunity to engage in peer-to-peer discussions through the discussion forums. By the end of this course, you will have a practical understanding of how to identify, assess, and manage drug interactions and polypharmacy to improve medication safety and therapeutic outcomes for yourself and your patients.