EMERGING THEMES IN MEDICATION SAFETY: A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF PHARMACY PRACTICE LITERATURE

Abstract

Introduction: Medication safety is a critical focus in healthcare, aiming to reduce adverse drug events and ensure optimal patient outcomes. Despite advancements in pharmacy practice, medication errors persist as a significant global challenge, necessitating a structured understanding of the evolving trends in this field. Methodology: This study explores emerging trends in medication safety through a bibliometric analysis of pharmacy practice literature. Utilizing Scopus Analyzer and VOSviewer software, a dataset of 1,152 publications was analyzed to identify prominent themes, influential authors, leading institutions, and key collaborative networks. Using Scopus Analyzer and VOSviewer software, this study analyzed 1152 articles, identifying key research areas and exploring the relationship between countries, institutions, and influential authors. Results: The results highlight a strong focus on critical themes such as medication safety, medication errors, patient safety, and integrating technology in pharmacy practice. High-frequency keywords such as "medication safety" and "patient safety" were central to the literature, reflecting the continuous efforts to improve healthcare practices and minimize medication-related risks. Geographically, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia were found to be the leading contributors to this field, with growing involvement from emerging regions such as China and Saudi Arabia. The analysis reveals the increasing role of digital tools, including electronic health records and clinical decision support systems, in enhancing medication safety. Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis underscores the evolving landscape of medication safety research, emphasizing the role of pharmacists and technology in reducing medication errors. Our findings highlight the growing global recognition of the importance of medication safety and the need for further collaboration, particularly in less-represented regions. By providing insights into the shifting landscape of pharmacy practice literature and highlighting the need for continued research and international cooperation, this study informs evidence-based policies. It supports the advancement of medication safety practices globally to address medication safety challenges effectively.