Login / Signup

Optimizing pharmacotherapy and deprescribing strategies in older adults living with multimorbidity and polypharmacy: EuGMS SIG on pharmacology position paper.

Eveline P van PoelgeestLotta J SeppäläGülistan BahatGülistan BahatAlpana MairRob J van MarumGraziano OnderJesper RygMarília Andreia FernandesAntonio CherubiniMichael D DenkingerAnnette EidamAngelique EgbertsAðalsteinn GudmundssonFatma Özge Kayhan KoçakGeorge SoulisJos TournoyTahir MasudMartin F WehlingNathalie van der Veldenull null
Published in: European geriatric medicine (2023)
Inappropriate polypharmacy is highly prevalent among older adults and presents a significant healthcare concern. Conducting medication reviews and implementing deprescribing strategies in multimorbid older adults with polypharmacy are an inherently complex and challenging task. Recognizing this, the Special Interest Group on Pharmacology of the European Geriatric Medicine Society has compiled evidence on medication review and deprescribing in older adults and has formulated recommendations to enhance appropriate prescribing practices. The current evidence supports the need for a comprehensive and widespread transformation in education, guidelines, research, advocacy, and policy to improve the management of polypharmacy in older individuals. Furthermore, incorporating deprescribing as a routine aspect of care for the ageing population is crucial. We emphasize the importance of involving geriatricians and experts in geriatric pharmacology in driving, and actively participating in this transformative process. By doing so, we can work towards achieving optimal medication use and enhancing the well-being of older adults in the generations to come.
Keyphrases
  • healthcare
  • adverse drug
  • physical activity
  • clinical practice
  • primary care
  • quality improvement
  • middle aged
  • community dwelling
  • palliative care
  • mental health
  • affordable care act
  • drug induced
  • health insurance