Elderly drug poly use poses concerns
In the realm of geriatric medicine, managing multimedication is a critical concern. With older adults consuming 64% of all medications and taking an average of more than five medications per day, the potential for unwanted side effects, interactions, and non-compliance increases significantly.
Recognizing inappropriate medication selection and avoiding multimedication is key to mitigating these risks. Regularly reviewing all prescribed and over-the-counter drugs is essential to evaluate their necessity, dose, and potential interactions. Deprescribing medications without clear benefit can help reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
One approach to identifying potentially inappropriate medications is the use of explicit criteria such as the Beers Criteria or STOPP/START criteria. These tools help geriatric healthcare professionals streamline the medication plan for older patients.
Simplifying medication regimens is another important strategy. Aiming to reduce the number of medications and dosing frequency can improve adherence, which is crucial for effective treatment.
Patient education plays a vital role in this process. Informing patients and caregivers about medication purposes, side effects, and the importance of adherence can empower them to take an active role in their healthcare.
Close monitoring is also essential, especially when initiating or changing therapy. Healthcare professionals must be vigilant for adverse effects and interactions to ensure the safety of their older patients.
An interdisciplinary approach is key to optimising medication safety. Involving pharmacists, nurses, and physicians in coordinated management can provide a comprehensive view of a patient's medication needs and potential risks.
These interventions have been shown to reduce adverse drug reactions, prevent harmful interactions, and enhance compliance in older patients with polypharmacy. However, it's important to note that clinical studies are usually conducted on younger populations, leaving a poor database for older patients. This underscores the need for more research in geriatric medicine to ensure the best possible care for our elderly population.
Despite the medical progress and increased life expectancy brought about by numerous medications, approximately 20,000 deaths from medications occur in Germany each year, with about half considered avoidable. "Prescription cascades," where a medication side effect is treated with a new medication, occur more frequently than one might think.
By implementing these strategies, we can help ensure that our older population receives safe, effective, and appropriate medication care, improving their quality of life and overall health outcomes.
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