Top 20 Prescribed Drugs: Adverse Reactions, Drug Interactions and Implications to Dental Treatment

Pharmacology is the study of Drugs and their effects on the human body. Chronic medical conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, endocrine disorders and neurological conditions are very prevalent worldwide.  In this course we will discuss the top 20 prescribed drugs in North America. We will review the pharmacological actions of these drugs, any reported adverse reactions and drug interactions associated with their use. We will review the effects of these medications on the oral cavity and any needed dental modifications for these patients. Specific emphasis will be given to the effects and interactions of these commonly prescribed drugs with those often given by dentists namely, local anaesthetics, analgesics, antibiotics and antifungals.

Dr. Aviv Ouanounou is an associate professor of pharmacology and Preventive Dentistry at the faculty of dentistry, University of Toronto. He received both his DDS and MSc at the University of Toronto. He teaches pharmacology and Preventive Dentistry to undergraduate and graduate students and is also a clinical instructor and Treatment Plan Coordinator in the University clinics. Dr. Ouanounou won numerous teaching awards including wining “Best Teacher of the Year Award” three times: in 2013, 2015 and in 2019.  Also, Dr. Ouanounou is the recipient of the 2014-2015 prestigious Dr. Bruce Hord Master Teacher Award for excellence in teaching at the University of Toronto and is the 2018-2019 Recipient of the W.W. Wood Award for Excellence in Dental Education. Dr. Ouanounou is a Fellow of the International College of Dentists, the American College of Dentists and the Pierre Fouchard Academy. He is a member of the American Academy of Pain Management and the American College of Clinical Pharmacology. He has published and authored numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals. He also maintains a general private practice in Toronto.