September 10, 2024 | Mehdi Abbasian, Ehsan Sarbazi, Ali Allahyari, Haleh Vaez
The article "Polypharmacy in Older Adults" by Mehdi Abbasian, Ehsan Sarbazi, Ali Allahyari, and Haleh Vaez highlights the critical issue of polypharmacy, defined as the use of multiple medications, particularly more than four chronic medications. Polypharmacy is prevalent among older adults, with rates ranging from 14.6% to 60.8% in European countries and 36.9% in Iran. It is associated with increased healthcare costs, medication interactions, adverse drug reactions, non-adherence, and reduced quality of life. The growing population of older adults and individuals with non-communicable diseases, coupled with economic challenges and subpar public health services, exacerbates the problem.
The article discusses the epidemiology of polypharmacy, noting that it is particularly common in Iran due to high illiteracy rates and inadequate health services. Risk factors include geriatric syndromes, chronic conditions, cognitive decline, and poly-provider prescribing. Loneliness and lack of social support further complicate the management of polypharmacy, leading to increased medication use and non-adherence.
To address these challenges, the authors recommend comprehensive medication reviews, patient and caregiver education, the use of technology for medication management, and enhanced support systems. They emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers to optimize medication use and improve health outcomes. The article concludes by highlighting the need for patient-centered care and effective deprescribing strategies to reduce the burden of polypharmacy and enhance the quality of life for older adults.The article "Polypharmacy in Older Adults" by Mehdi Abbasian, Ehsan Sarbazi, Ali Allahyari, and Haleh Vaez highlights the critical issue of polypharmacy, defined as the use of multiple medications, particularly more than four chronic medications. Polypharmacy is prevalent among older adults, with rates ranging from 14.6% to 60.8% in European countries and 36.9% in Iran. It is associated with increased healthcare costs, medication interactions, adverse drug reactions, non-adherence, and reduced quality of life. The growing population of older adults and individuals with non-communicable diseases, coupled with economic challenges and subpar public health services, exacerbates the problem.
The article discusses the epidemiology of polypharmacy, noting that it is particularly common in Iran due to high illiteracy rates and inadequate health services. Risk factors include geriatric syndromes, chronic conditions, cognitive decline, and poly-provider prescribing. Loneliness and lack of social support further complicate the management of polypharmacy, leading to increased medication use and non-adherence.
To address these challenges, the authors recommend comprehensive medication reviews, patient and caregiver education, the use of technology for medication management, and enhanced support systems. They emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers to optimize medication use and improve health outcomes. The article concludes by highlighting the need for patient-centered care and effective deprescribing strategies to reduce the burden of polypharmacy and enhance the quality of life for older adults.