Reasons for Regimen Modifications of Antineoplastic Agents in an Outpatient Oncology Clinic in Puerto Rico
Vol. 45 No. 2 (2026), Brief Reports
Vol. 45 No. 2 (2026)

Reasons for Regimen Modifications of Antineoplastic Agents in an Outpatient Oncology Clinic in Puerto Rico

Brief Reports
Published 2026-06-25
José R. Chévere-Reyes
University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus
Laura C. Amadeo-Sánchez
Comprehensive Cancer Center Hospital
Elsa Pedro-Gutiérrez
University of Puerto Rico, Comprehensive Cancer Center Hospital
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Keywords

Regimen modifications
antineoplastics
dose rounding

How to Cite

Chévere-Reyes, J. R., Amadeo-Sánchez, L. C., & Pedro-Gutiérrez, E. (2026). Reasons for Regimen Modifications of Antineoplastic Agents in an Outpatient Oncology Clinic in Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico Health Sciences Journal, 45(2), 102–196. Retrieved from https://prhsj.rcm.upr.edu/index.php/prhsj/article/view/3660
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Abstract

Objective: Evidence-based modifications to antineoplastic therapy regimens are common. The reasons for those changes are varied and include dose rounding, adjustments based on organ function or changes in weight of the patient, and adverse reactions. Given this complexity, proper documentation, and use of computerized provider order entry (CPOE) systems are essential in promoting optimal decision making and patient outcomes. The objective of this study is to explore common reasons for therapeutic regimen modification and their documentation. Methods: This was a descriptive, retrospective study. Patients who received services at the infusion clinics of a specialized oncology hospital during May 2023, and whose regimen was modified between the months of August 2022 and May 2023 were included. Changes were recorded with their explanations, as detailed by physicians. Physical records from the Department of Pharmacy were also verified. Results: The most documented reason for changes in therapeutic regimens of patients, by both physicians and pharmacy, was dose rounding (31.61% and 45.48%, respectively). Adverse effects recorded by physicians included neurotoxicity and gastrointestinal toxicity (5.16% and 3.55%, respectively). In the evaluated documentation, 14.19% of changes showed discrepancies in both records and 2.6% were not justified in either. Conclusion: Dose rounding was the most common reason for antineoplastic regimen modifications documented by physicians and pharmacists. Record reviews showed opportunities to improve consistency and clarity of data. Strengthening standardized documentation and interprofessional collaboration may optimize clinical decision-making.

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