Gastroenterologically relevant high alert medications prescribed to children with chronic diseases—a consensus-driven single-center pilot study - Report - MDSpire

Gastroenterologically relevant high alert medications prescribed to children with chronic diseases—a consensus-driven single-center pilot study

  • By

  • Judith Hochrainer

  • Rebecca Einspieler

  • Andreas Heilos

  • Judith Pichler

  • Michael Boehm

  • May 4, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Identification of High Alert Medications in Pediatric Gastroenterology

Overview

This pilot study identifies High Alert Medications (HAMs) in pediatric gastroenterology, highlighting 12 medications with significant risk and potential harm. The findings emphasize the need for tailored HAM lists to improve medication safety in this vulnerable population.

Background

Children with chronic gastroenterological diseases often manage complex medication regimens at home, which can lead to significant risks if errors occur. High Alert Medications are particularly concerning due to their potential for severe adverse effects when mismanaged. This study addresses the gap in existing HAM lists specific to pediatric patients with chronic conditions, aiming to enhance medication safety.

Data Highlights

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Key Findings

  • 32 medications were categorized into the highest medication risk categories.
  • 16 medications were identified as having the highest potential for patient harm.
  • 12 medications were defined as High Alert Medications (HAMs), primarily immunosuppressants.
  • 50% of identified HAMs were unique to this study and not found in other published lists.
  • One-third of the HAMs were not previously classified as high alert.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be aware of the specific HAMs identified in this study to mitigate risks associated with medication errors in pediatric gastroenterology. Developing localized HAM lists can enhance patient safety and guide clinical practice in managing complex medication regimens.

Conclusion

The identification of HAMs in pediatric gastroenterology underscores the necessity for tailored medication safety strategies. Future validation studies are essential to generalize these findings across different settings.

References

  1. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  2. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  3. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  4. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  5. ISMP List of High-Alert Medications
  6. Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) Guideline for Thiopurine Dosing Based on TPMT and NUDT15 Genotypes: 2025 Update - PMC
  7. Standardize 4 Safety Initiative - ASHP
  8. ISMP List of High-Alert Medications
  9. Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) Guideline for Thiopurine Dosing Based on TPMT and NUDT15 Genotypes: 2025 Update - PMC
  10. Standardize 4 Safety Initiative - ASHP

Original Source(s)

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