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Counter D, Millar JWT, McLay JS. Hospital readmissions, mortality and potentially inappropriate prescribing: a retrospective study of older adults discharged from hospital. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2018; 84:1757-1763. [PMID: 29744901 PMCID: PMC6046509 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.13607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Applying version 2 of the STOPP/START criteria to discharge prescriptions of older adults discharged from a general medical unit, the aim of this study is to assess potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) and potential prescribing omissions (PPOs) and their association with hospital readmission and mortality. METHODS Discharge medications, co-morbidities and patient demographics were recorded over an 8-month period for consecutive emergency admissions of patients aged ≥65 years. PIMs and PPOs were identified using version 2 of the STOPP/START criteria. Multivariate analysis for association of PIMs and PPOs with re-admissions and mortality during the follow-up period were assessed using binary logistic regression. RESULTS Data for 259 patients with a mean age of 77 (65-99, 51% female) were analysed. At discharge, the mean number of co-morbidities and medications per patient were 5.4 (SD: 2.1 range: 0-14) and 9.3 (SD: 4.0 range: 1-31) respectively. During the follow-up period (mean 41.5 months, SD: 2.0 range: 38-46 months), 50.2% of patients had died and the median number of readmissions was two (IQR: 1-4 range: 0-33). Prescription of more than five medications was significantly associated with PIMs and PPOs (OR: 2.75, 95% CI: 1.34-5.62 and OR 3.20, 95% CI: 1.57-6.54 respectively). Presence of a PIM was associated with three or more readmissions (OR: 2.43 95% CI: 1.19-4.98) and PPOs with mortality (OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.09-3.27). CONCLUSIONS Using version 2 of the STOPP/START criteria, the presence of PIMs and/or PPOs in older adults discharged from hospital is significantly associated with repeated hospital admissions and mortality respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Counter
- NHS GrampianAberdeen Royal InfirmaryAberdeenAB25 2ZBUK
| | - James W. T. Millar
- NHS Glasgow and ClydeQueen Elizabeth University HospitalGlasgowG51 4TFUK
| | - James S. McLay
- The Division of Applied Health SciencesThe University of AberdeenAberdeenUK
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102
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Paksoy C, Özkan Ö, Ustaalioğlu BBÖ, Sancar M, Demirtunç R, Izzettin FV, Okuyan B. Evaluation of potentially inappropriate medication utilization in elderly patients with cancer at outpatient oncology unit. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2018; 25:1321-1327. [DOI: 10.1177/1078155218788698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background The aim of the study was to evaluate potentially inappropriate medication use in elderly patients with cancer. Method This study was conducted at outpatient oncology clinic from December 2014 to March 2015 among elderly cancer patients. Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert doctors to Right Treatment criteria were used to identify potentially inappropriate medication in elderly patients. Results Among 114 cancer patients 55.26% of them were male and the mean age of them was 71.78 ± 5.50 (years). The most common concurrent diseases were hypertension in 45 (39.47%) and diabetes in 26 (22.81%) patients. Polypharmacy (≥5 medications) was seen in 94.73% of them. Eighteen patients (15.79%) utilized medications inappropriately according to Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions criteria. Medication omissions were identified in 112 patients (98.25%) with Screening Tool to Alert doctors to Right Treatment criteria. Conclusions Clinical pharmacists could improve the current prescribing practices in elderly patients with cancer by assessing potentially inappropriate medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceylan Paksoy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Marmara University Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Öznur Özkan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Marmara University Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bala BÖ Ustaalioğlu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Health Science University, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mesut Sancar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Marmara University Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Refik Demirtunç
- Department of Internal Medicine, Health Science University, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fikret V Izzettin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Marmara University Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Betul Okuyan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Marmara University Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul, Turkey
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103
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Nightingale G, Schwartz R, Kachur E, Dixon BN, Cote C, Barlow A, Barlow B, Medina P. Clinical pharmacology of oncology agents in older adults: A comprehensive review of how chronologic and functional age can influence treatment-related effects. J Geriatr Oncol 2018; 10:4-30. [PMID: 30017734 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2018.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Unique challenges exist when managing older adults with cancer. Associations between cancer and age-related physiologic changes have a direct impact on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cancer therapies and can affect drug dosing, dose intensity, efficacy, safety and quality of life. The breadth and depth of these issues, however, have not been fully evaluated because the majority of clinical trials have focused on a younger and healthier population. As a consequence, little information is available to support clinicians in making evidence-based decisions regarding treatment with cancer therapies in older adults, especially those over age 75. Prior clinical pharmacology reviews summarized the literature on how age-related physiologic changes can influence and affect conventional and targeted anti-cancer treatments. Our article provides an updated review with expanded information that includes small molecule kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, immunotherapies, hormonal, conventional, and miscellaneous agents. Additionally, our article integrates how functional age, determined by the geriatric assessment (GA), can also influence treatment-related effects and health outcomes. Broadening cancer therapy trials to capture not only chronologic age but also functional age would allow clinicians to better identify subsets of older adults who benefit from treatment versus those most vulnerable to morbidity and/or mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ginah Nightingale
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Jefferson College of Pharmacy, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
| | - Rowena Schwartz
- Pharmacy Practice, James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Ekaterina Kachur
- Department of Hematologic Oncology & Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute, Carolinas HealthCare System, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Brianne N Dixon
- Department of Pharmacy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Ashley Barlow
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Jefferson College of Pharmacy, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Brooke Barlow
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Jefferson College of Pharmacy, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Patrick Medina
- Director of Pharmacy, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
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104
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Kanesvaran R, Le Saux O, Motzer R, Choueiri TK, Scotté F, Bellmunt J, Launay-Vacher V. Elderly patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma: position paper from the International Society of Geriatric Oncology. Lancet Oncol 2018; 19:e317-e326. [PMID: 29893263 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(18)30125-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma should be tailored to the circumstances and preferences of the individual patient. Age should not be a barrier to effective treatment. Systematic geriatric screening and assessment contributes to the goal of personalised management, in addition to the involvement of a multidisciplinary team. A task force from the International Society of Geriatric Oncology (SIOG) updated its 2009 consensus statement on the management of elderly patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma by reviewing data from studies involving recently approved targeted drugs and immunotherapies for this disease. Overall, it seems that age alone does not appreciably affect efficacy. Among the pivotal studies that were included, there is a striking scarcity of analyses that relate toxic effects to patient age. Even if the adverse effects of therapy are no more frequent or severe in elderly patients than in their younger counterparts, the practical, psychological, and functional impact of treatment may be greater, especially if toxic effects are chronic and cumulative.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olivia Le Saux
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon Sud Hospital, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Robert Motzer
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Memorial Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Florian Scotté
- Medical Oncology and Supportive Care Department, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France
| | - Joaquim Bellmunt
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona Spain
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105
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Shahrokni A, Alexander K, Wildes TM, Puts MTE. Preventing Treatment-Related Functional Decline: Strategies to Maximize Resilience. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2018; 38:415-431. [PMID: 30231361 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_200427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The majority of patients with cancer are older adults. A comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) will help the clinical team identify underlying medical and functional status issues that can affect cancer treatment delivery, cancer prognosis, and treatment tolerability. The CGA, as well as more abbreviated assessments and geriatric screening tools, can aid in the treatment decision-making process through improved individualized prediction of mortality, toxicity of cancer therapy, and postoperative complications and can also help clinicians develop an integrated care plan for the older adult with cancer. In this article, we will review the latest evidence with regard to the use of CGA in oncology. In addition, we will describe the benefits of conducting a CGA and the types of interventions that can be taken by the interprofessional team to improve the treatment outcomes and well-being of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Shahrokni
- From the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis MO; Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Koshy Alexander
- From the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis MO; Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tanya M Wildes
- From the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis MO; Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Martine T E Puts
- From the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis MO; Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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106
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Jain N, Thompson P, Ferrajoli A, Nabhan C, Mato AR, O'Brien S. Approaches to Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Therapy in the Era of New Agents: The Conundrum of Many Options. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2018; 38:580-591. [PMID: 30231393 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_200691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Three small molecule inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in the last 4 years. Ibrutinib, idelalisib, and venetoclax are oral agents with excellent efficacy and different toxicity profiles. Issues discussed herein include the current role for chemoimmunotherapy in CLL, the use of oral inhibitors in older patients, and the sequencing of these molecules in daily practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitin Jain
- From the Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions, Chicago, IL; Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA
| | - Philip Thompson
- From the Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions, Chicago, IL; Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA
| | - Alessandra Ferrajoli
- From the Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions, Chicago, IL; Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA
| | - Chadi Nabhan
- From the Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions, Chicago, IL; Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA
| | - Anthony R Mato
- From the Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions, Chicago, IL; Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA
| | - Susan O'Brien
- From the Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX; Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions, Chicago, IL; Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA
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107
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Slimano F, Netzer F, Borget I, Lemare F, Besse B. Olanzapine as antiemetic drug in oncology: a retrospective study in non-responders to standard antiemetic therapy. Int J Clin Pharm 2018; 40:1265-1271. [PMID: 29744791 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-018-0649-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background The role of olanzapine in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in addition to the antiemetic therapeutic combination with aprepitant, setrons, and corticosteroids has not been well defined. Objective To investigate the effectiveness of the addition of olanzapine to a standard triplet therapy for the prevention of CINV in patients who experienced CINV during their first chemotherapy course, despite receiving a well-managed prevention protocol. Setting One comprehensive cancer centre in France. Method In a retrospective study with comparator, patients with a high risk of emesis were assigned to two groups during two different 6-month periods, before and after the introduction of olanzapine in clinical practice, respectively. In the olanzapine group, the antiemetic protocol for the second course of chemotherapy was reinforced by the addition of olanzapine at 5 mg/day from day 1 to 5 in contrast with the control group. Main outcome measure The proportion of patients who experienced neither nausea nor emesis during the delayed phase (24-120 h). Results The 25 patients in each group exhibited comparable characteristics and emetic chemotherapy level. During the first course, no significant difference was observed. During the second course, nausea and vomiting were ameliorated in 12 patients in the olanzapine group and 4 patients in the control group (p < 0.05). Nausea (12 vs. 4, p < 0.05) and vomiting (18 vs. 11, p < 0.05) also significantly improved. In the OLZ group, no adverse event was linked to olanzapine use. Conclusion The addition of olanzapine was observed to effectively restore CINV prevention in patients who did not respond to standard antiemetic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Slimano
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 114 rue Edouard-Vaillant, 94805, Villejuif, France.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Reims University, 51 rue Cognacq-Jay, 51100, Reims, France.
| | - Florence Netzer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 114 rue Edouard-Vaillant, 94805, Villejuif, France
| | - Isabelle Borget
- Department of Biostatistic and Epidemiology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, and INSERM U 1018, Paris-Sud, Paris-Saclay University, Châtenay-Malabry, France
- GRADES, Paris-Sud, Paris-Saclay University, 5 Rue Jean-Baptiste Clément, 92290, Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - François Lemare
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 114 rue Edouard-Vaillant, 94805, Villejuif, France
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Paris Descartes University, 4 rue de l'Observatoire, 75006, Paris, France
| | - Benjamin Besse
- Department of Medical Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 114 rue Edouard-Vaillant, 94805, Villejuif, France
- Faculty of Medicine, Paris-Sud, Paris-Saclay University, 63 rue Gabriel Péri, 94276, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre Cedex, France
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108
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Factors associated with falls in older adults with cancer: a validated model from the Cancer and Aging Research Group. Support Care Cancer 2018; 26:3563-3570. [PMID: 29705872 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4212-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls in older adults with cancer are common, yet factors associated with fall-risk are not well-defined and may differ from the general geriatric population. This study aims to develop and validate a model of factors associated with prior falls among older adults with cancer. METHODS In this cross-sectional secondary analysis, two cohorts of patients aged ≥ 65 with cancer were examined to develop and validate a model of factors associated with falls in the prior 6 months. Potential independent variables, including demographic and laboratory data and a geriatric assessment (encompassing comorbidities, functional status, physical performance, medications, and psychosocial status), were identified. A multivariate model was developed in the derivation cohort using an exhaustive modeling approach. The model selected for validation offered a low Akaike Information Criteria value and included dichotomized variables for ease of clinical use. This model was then applied in the validation cohort. RESULTS The development cohort (N = 498) had a mean age of 73 (range 65-91). Nearly one-fifth (18.2%) reported a fall in the prior 6 months. The selected model comprised nine variables involving functional status, objective physical performance, depression, medications, and renal function. The AUC of the model was 0.72 (95% confidence intervals 0.65-0.78). In the validation cohort (N = 250), the prevalence of prior falls was 23.6%. The AUC of the model in the validation cohort was 0.62 (95% confidence intervals 0.51-0.71). CONCLUSION In this study, we developed and validated a model of factors associated with prior falls in older adults with cancer. Future study is needed to examine the utility of such a model in prospectively predicting incident falls.
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109
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Karuturi MS, Holmes HM, Lei X, Johnson M, Barcenas CH, Cantor SB, Gallick GE, Bast RC, Giordano SH. Potentially inappropriate medication use in older patients with breast and colorectal cancer. Cancer 2018; 124:3000-3007. [PMID: 29689595 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.31403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to determine patient characteristics associated with potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use and its impact on outcomes for patients with breast or colorectal cancer receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. METHODS The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database, linked to Medicare claims, was used. The cohort included patients who were 66 years old or older and were diagnosed with stage II or III breast or colorectal cancer between July 1, 2007, and December 31, 2009. The Drugs to Avoid in the Elderly (DAE) list and the Beers criteria were used to identify PIM use. Univariate/multivariate logistic regression determined the association of baseline PIMs with covariates. Event-free survival (EFS) was defined as the time from chemotherapy initiation to the first emergency room (ER) visit, hospitalization, death, or a composite until 3 months after chemotherapy. Cox proportional hazards modeling determined the association of PIMs with EFS. RESULTS The analysis included 1595 patients with breast cancer and 1528 patients with colorectal cancer. The baseline PIM frequencies were 22.2% (according to the DAE list) and 27.6% (according to the Beers criteria) in the breast cohort and 15.5% (according to the DAE list) and 24.8% (according to the Beers criteria) in the colorectal cohort. Among patients with breast cancer, 37.5% had at least 1 adverse outcome; associations included the use of ≥5 medications, an advanced stage, higher comorbidity, and prior ER visits/hospitalizations. Baseline PIM use according to the DAE list was associated with an increased risk of death in patients with breast cancer. Among patients with colorectal cancer, 45% had at least 1 adverse outcome, and associations included the use of ≥5 medications, older age, female sex, and higher comorbidity. A time-to-event analysis revealed no association between baseline PIM use and most outcomes. CONCLUSIONS These findings require further prospective confirmation, but they support a correlation between polypharmacy and adverse outcomes for cancer patients and call into question the association with PIMs. Cancer 2018;124:3000-7. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan S Karuturi
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Holly M Holmes
- Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | - Xiudong Lei
- Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Carlos H Barcenas
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Scott B Cantor
- Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Gary E Gallick
- Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Robert C Bast
- Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Sharon H Giordano
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.,Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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Murphy CC, Fullington HM, Alvarez CA, Betts AC, Lee SJC, Haggstrom DA, Halm EA. Polypharmacy and patterns of prescription medication use among cancer survivors. Cancer 2018; 124:2850-2857. [PMID: 29645083 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.31389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The population of cancer survivors is rapidly growing in the United States. Long-term and late effects of cancer, combined with the ongoing management of other chronic conditions, make survivors particularly vulnerable to polypharmacy and its adverse effects. In the current study, the authors examined patterns of prescription medication use and polypharmacy in a population-based sample of cancer survivors. METHODS Using data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS), the authors matched cancer survivors (5216 survivors) with noncancer controls (19,588 controls) by age, sex, and survey year. Polypharmacy was defined as ≥5 unique medications. The authors estimated the percentage of respondents prescribed medications within therapeutic classes and total prescription expenditures. RESULTS A higher percentage of cancer survivors were prescribed ≥5 unique medications (64.0%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 62.3%-65.8%) compared with noncancer controls (51.5%; 95% CI, 50.4%-52.6%), including drugs with abuse potential. Across all therapeutic classes, a higher percentage of newly (≤1 year since diagnosis) and previously (>1 years since diagnosis) diagnosed survivors were prescribed medications compared with controls, with large differences observed with regard to central nervous system agents (65.8% [95% CI, 62.3%-69.3%] vs 57.4% [95% CI, 55.3%-59.5%] vs 46.0% [95% CI, 45.0%-46.9%]). Specifically, nearly 10% of survivors were prescribed benzodiazepines and/or opioids compared with approximately 5% of controls. Survivors had more than double the prescription expenditures (median of $1633 vs $784 among controls). Findings persisted across age and comorbidity categories. CONCLUSIONS Cancer survivors were prescribed a higher number of unique medications, including drugs with abuse potential, thereby increasing their risk of adverse drug events, financial toxicity, poor adherence, and drug-drug interactions. Cancer 2018;124:2850-2857. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin C Murphy
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Hannah M Fullington
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Carlos A Alvarez
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Andrea C Betts
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas School of Public Health-Dallas Regional Campus, Dallas, Texas
| | - Simon J Craddock Lee
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - David A Haggstrom
- Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Ethan A Halm
- Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, Texas
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Abstract
Managing cancer pain in older adults can be complex and challenging. Understanding the unique needs of older patients with cancer is important to safe and effective pain management. The goals of this review are to discuss the assessment of older adults with cancer-related pain, treatment of cancer pain, and adverse effects or potential risks from treatment that are unique to older patients. A detailed pain assessment and when possible utilizing the geriatric assessment are vital to developing a cancer pain management plan. The geriatric assessment can help clinicians uncover problems not routinely assessed in the standard oncologic evaluation. Opioid pain medications are safe and effective for older adults with cancer pain as long as these medications are closely monitored and titrated slowly. In addition to the well-known adverse effects of opioid medications, clinicians need to be aware of the unique risks in older adults, which could include delirium, polypharmacy, and falls.
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112
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Geriatric assessment-driven polypharmacy discussions between oncologists, older patients, and their caregivers. J Geriatr Oncol 2018. [PMID: 29530495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Polypharmacy (PP) and potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) are common in older adults with cancer, increasing the risk of adverse outcomes. Approaches to identifying and addressing PP/PIM are needed. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients ≥70 years with advanced cancer were enrolled in this cluster-randomized study. All underwent geriatric assessment (GA), and oncologists randomized to the intervention arm received GA-driven recommendations; no information was provided to oncologists at usual care sites. For patients with PP (≥5 medications or ≥1 high-risk medication), clinic visits with treating oncologists were audiorecorded and transcribed, and discussions regarding PP/PIM identified. Quality of provider response was coded as dismissed, mentioned, acknowledged, or addressed. RESULTS Forty patient transcripts were analyzed (20 per arm). More discussions occurred in the intervention group (n = 81) versus the usual care group (n = 51). More concerns per patient were brought up in the intervention group (4.1 vs. 2.6, p = 0.07). Physician-initiated discussions were higher in the intervention group (73% vs. 49%, p = 0.006). More PP concerns were "addressed" in the intervention group (59% vs. 45%, p = 0.1). Oncology supportive care medication concerns were more often addressed in the usual care group (58% vs. 18%, p = 0.008), but medication management concerns were addressed more commonly in the intervention group (38% vs. 79%, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION In this secondary analysis, a GA-driven intervention increased PP discussions, particularly about total number of medications and medication management. PP/PIM concerns were more commonly addressed in the intervention group, except for the subset of conversations about supportive care medications.
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113
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Adherence to Oral Anticancer Medications: Evolving Interprofessional Roles and Pharmacist Workforce Considerations. PHARMACY 2018. [PMID: 29518017 PMCID: PMC5874562 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy6010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Interprofessional care is exhibited in outpatient oncology practices where practitioners from a myriad of specialties (e.g., oncology, nursing, pharmacy, health informatics and others) work collectively with patients to enhance therapeutic outcomes and minimize adverse effects. Historically, most ambulatory-based anticancer medication therapies have been administrated in infusion clinics or physician offices. Oral anticancer medications (OAMs) have become increasingly prevalent and preferred by patients for use in residential or other non-clinic settings. Self-administration of OAMs represents a significant shift in the management of cancer care and role responsibilities for patients and clinicians. While patients have a greater sense of empowerment and convenience when taking OAMs, adherence is a greater challenge than with intravenous therapies. This paper proposes use of a qualitative systems evaluation, based on theoretical frameworks for interdisciplinary team collaboration and systems science, to examine the social interactionism involved with the use of intravenous anticancer treatments and OAMs (as treatment technologies) by describing patient, organizational, and social systems considerations in communication, care, control, and context (i.e., Kaplan’s 4Cs). This conceptualization can help the healthcare system prepare for substantial workforce changes in cancer management, including increased utilization of oncology pharmacists.
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Loh KP, Zittel J, Kadambi S, Pandya C, Xu H, Flannery M, Magnuson A, Bautista J, McHugh C, Mustian K, Dale W, Duberstein P, Mohile SG. Elucidating the associations between sleep disturbance and depression, fatigue, and pain in older adults with cancer. J Geriatr Oncol 2018; 9:464-468. [PMID: 29506921 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sleep disturbance is prevalent and often coexists with depression, fatigue, and pain in the cancer population. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of sleep disturbance with co-existing depression, fatigue, and pain in older patients with cancer. We also examined the associations of several socio-demographic and clinical variables with sleep disturbance. METHODS This cross-sectional study consisted of 389 older patients with solid and hematologic malignancies who were referred to the Specialized Oncology Care & Research in the Elderly (SOCARE) clinics at the Universities of Rochester and Chicago between May 2011 and October 2015 and completed a sleep and geriatric assessment (that inquires about fatigue, pain, and depression). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with sleep disturbance. RESULTS The prevalence of sleep disturbance was 40%. Of those with sleep disturbance (n = 154), 84% also had at least one of the other three symptoms (25% had one symptom, 38% had two symptoms, and 21% had three symptoms). Sleep disturbance was more likely to be reported in those with comorbidities (45% vs. 28%, P = 0.002), depression (49% vs. 36%, P = 0.015), fatigue (49% vs. 23%, P < 0.001), and pain (45% vs. 31%, P = 0.010). On multivariable analysis, only fatigue (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.90, 95% CI 1.10-3.30, P = 0.020) was independently associated with sleep disturbance. CONCLUSIONS Sleep disturbance is prevalent and often co-occurs with depression, fatigue, or pain in older patients with cancer. Fatigue was significantly associated with sleep disturbance and future studies should explore interventions that target sleep disturbance and fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kah Poh Loh
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Jason Zittel
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Sindhuja Kadambi
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Chintan Pandya
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Huiwen Xu
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Marie Flannery
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Allison Magnuson
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Javier Bautista
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Colin McHugh
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Karen Mustian
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - William Dale
- Department of Medicine, Section of Geriatrics & Palliative Medicine, University of Chicago Medical Center, United States
| | - Paul Duberstein
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States
| | - Supriya G Mohile
- James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, United States.
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Lin RJ, Ma H, Guo R, Troxel AB, Diefenbach CS. Potentially inappropriate medication use in elderly non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients is associated with reduced survival and increased toxicities. Br J Haematol 2018; 180:267-270. [PMID: 29143301 PMCID: PMC6759829 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.15027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Survival outcomes for elderly lymphoma patients are disproportionally inferior to those of younger patients. We examined medication usage at diagnosis for 171 elderly patients (median age 70 years) with aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma treated between 2009 and 2014. At least one potentially inappropriate medication was used in 47% of patients according to the Beers Criteria, 59% experienced treatment delays and/or dose reduction and 65% experienced ≥ grade 3 treatment-related toxicities. We report here for the first time that potentially inappropriate medication use was associated with reduced progression-free survival and overall survival, and increased ≥ grade 3 treatment-related toxicities in multivariate analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Helen Ma
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Laura & Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center at New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Robin Guo
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Laura & Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center at New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Andrea B. Troxel
- Division of Biostatistics, Laura & Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center at New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Catherine S. Diefenbach
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Laura & Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center at New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
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Lund JL, Sanoff HK, Peacock Hinton S, Muss HB, Pate V, Stürmer T. Potential Medication-Related Problems in Older Breast, Colon, and Lung Cancer Patients in the United States. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2018; 27:41-49. [PMID: 28978563 PMCID: PMC5760326 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-17-0523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Older adults are often exposed to multiple medications, some of which could be inappropriate or have the potential to interact with each other. Older cancer patients may be at increased risk for medication-related problems due to exposure to cancer-directed treatment.Methods: We described patterns of potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use and potential drug-chemotherapy interactions among adults age 66+ years diagnosed with stage I-III breast, stage II-III colon, and stage I to II lung cancer. Within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare database, patients had to have Medicare Part D coverage with 1+ prescription in the diagnosis month and Medicare Parts A/B coverage in the prior 12 months. We estimated monthly prevalence of any and cancer-related PIM from 6 months pre- to 23 months postcancer diagnosis and 12-month period prevalence of potential drug-chemotherapy interactions.Results: Overall, 19,318 breast, 7,283 colon, and 7,237 lung cancer patients were evaluated. Monthly PIM prevalence was stable prediagnosis (37%-40%), but increased in the year following a colon or lung cancer diagnosis, and decreased following a breast cancer diagnosis. Changes in PIM prevalence were driven primarily by cancer-related PIM in patients on chemotherapy. Potential drug-chemotherapy interactions were observed in all cohorts, with prevalent interactions involving hydrochlorothiazide, warfarin, and proton-pump inhibitors.Conclusions: There was a high burden of potential medication-related problems among older cancer patients; future research to evaluate outcomes of these exposures is warranted.Impact: Older adults diagnosed with cancer have unique medication management needs. Thus, pharmacy specialists should be integrated into multidisciplinary teams caring for these patients. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(1); 41-49. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Lund
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Hanna K Sanoff
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Sharon Peacock Hinton
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Hyman B Muss
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Virginia Pate
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Til Stürmer
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Leger DY, Moreau S, Signol N, Fargeas JB, Picat MA, Penot A, Abraham J, Laroche ML, Bordessoule D. Polypharmacy, potentially inappropriate medications and drug-drug interactions in geriatric patients with hematologic malignancy: Observational single-center study of 122 patients. J Geriatr Oncol 2018; 9:60-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2017.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Evaluation of Drug-Disease Interactions and Their Association with Unplanned Hospital Readmission Utilizing STOPP Version 2 Criteria. Geriatrics (Basel) 2017; 2:geriatrics2040033. [PMID: 31011043 PMCID: PMC6371179 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics2040033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Early hospital readmission is a common problem among geriatric patients, as they are more susceptible to adverse drug events, which are associated with increased hospital admission. The objective is to examine the association between exposure to potentially inappropriate medications under selected STOPP version 2 criteria related to drug-disease interactions and unplanned early hospitalization within 28 days of index admission in elderly patients prescribed a potentially inappropriate medication. This retrospective single-center study reviewed patients 75 years of age or older that were discharged with 5 or more medications, including at least one selected medication listed in the STOPP version 2 criteria relating to drug-disease interactions. 182 patients, with a mean age of 83.5 years, were included in the study, with anticholinergics being the most common potentially inappropriate medications (22.4%). Potentially inappropriate medications (57.1% vs. 17.1%, p < 0.001), gout (31% vs. 11.5%, p = 0.003), and gastrointestinal disease (11.9% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.026) were shown to increase risk of 28-day readmission, whereas no other factors assessed correlated with readmission. A rapid evaluation of elderly patient discharge medications and concomitant disease states with the aid of the STOPP version 2 criteria could potentially reduce hospital readmissions or emergency department visits.
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Polypharmacy in Older Adults with Cancer: Evaluating Polypharmacy as Part of the Geriatric Assessment. CURRENT GERIATRICS REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s13670-017-0221-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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120
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Masnoon N, Shakib S, Kalisch-Ellett L, Caughey GE. What is polypharmacy? A systematic review of definitions. BMC Geriatr 2017; 17:230. [PMID: 29017448 PMCID: PMC5635569 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-017-0621-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1536] [Impact Index Per Article: 219.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multimorbidity and the associated use of multiple medicines (polypharmacy), is common in the older population. Despite this, there is no consensus definition for polypharmacy. A systematic review was conducted to identify and summarise polypharmacy definitions in existing literature. METHODS The reporting of this systematic review conforms to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE and Cochrane were systematically searched, as well as grey literature, to identify articles which defined the term polypharmacy (without any limits on the types of definitions) and were in English, published between 1st January 2000 and 30th May 2016. Definitions were categorised as i. numerical only (using the number of medications to define polypharmacy), ii. numerical with an associated duration of therapy or healthcare setting (such as during hospital stay) or iii. Descriptive (using a brief description to define polypharmacy). RESULTS A total of 1156 articles were identified and 110 articles met the inclusion criteria. Articles not only defined polypharmacy but associated terms such as minor and major polypharmacy. As a result, a total of 138 definitions of polypharmacy and associated terms were obtained. There were 111 numerical only definitions (80.4% of all definitions), 15 numerical definitions which incorporated a duration of therapy or healthcare setting (10.9%) and 12 descriptive definitions (8.7%). The most commonly reported definition of polypharmacy was the numerical definition of five or more medications daily (n = 51, 46.4% of articles), with definitions ranging from two or more to 11 or more medicines. Only 6.4% of articles classified the distinction between appropriate and inappropriate polypharmacy, using descriptive definitions to make this distinction. CONCLUSIONS Polypharmacy definitions were variable. Numerical definitions of polypharmacy did not account for specific comorbidities present and make it difficult to assess safety and appropriateness of therapy in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nashwa Masnoon
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Frome Road, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
- Department of Pharmacy, Royal Adelaide Hospital, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
| | - Sepehr Shakib
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
| | - Lisa Kalisch-Ellett
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Frome Road, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
| | - Gillian E. Caughey
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Frome Road, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia Australia
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Gatwood J, Gatwood K, Gabre E, Alexander M. Impact of clinical pharmacists in outpatient oncology practices: A review. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2017; 74:1549-1557. [DOI: 10.2146/ajhp160475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Gatwood
- University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy, Nashville, TN
| | | | - Ezra Gabre
- University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy, Nashville, TN
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Panchal R. Systemic anticancer therapy (SACT) for lung cancer and its potential for interactions with other medicines. Ecancermedicalscience 2017; 11:764. [PMID: 28955400 PMCID: PMC5606292 DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2017.764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Systemic anticancer therapy, comprising chemotherapy agents alongside targeted therapies and immunotherapy, is clinically indicated for late-stage lung cancer. It is delivered in regimens often containing multiple anticancer agents as well as supportive care medicines to reduce side effects, raising potential for polypharmacy and therefore the possibility of drug–drug interactions with medicines taken for comorbidities. A pharmacy-led process commonly performed to assist safe prescribing in secondary care is medicines reconciliation; its benefit in minimising interactions involving systemic anticancer therapy medicines has not been assessed previously. Objectives The objectives were to characterise the potential drug–drug interactions between systemic anticancer therapy medicines for lung cancer and other medicines and to evaluate the rate of medicines reconciliation being performed and the extent of documentation of potential interactions (clinical audit). Methodology This retrospective case series study involved recording the medicines being taken by lung cancer patients undergoing systemic anticancer therapy elicited in consultations at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, United Kingdom. Potential interactions were identified and characterised in terms of severity using the British National Formulary and other sources. Patient consultation records were also searched for documentation of medicines reconciliation and acknowledgement of potential drug–drug interactions. Results Twenty-three patients were included in this study. Eighty-eight potential drug–drug interactions were identified across 21 patients, 39% (34/88) of which involved the supportive care medicine dexamethasone. 3.0% of consultations included a documented medicines reconciliation, and 15.9% of potential interactions were documented in the notes, with no correlation between the two. Potentially serious interactions were significantly more likely to be documented (p < 0.05). Conclusions Many potential drug–drug interactions involving anticancer agents and supportive care medicines exist; particular attention should be paid to dexamethasone. Documentation of interactions and medicines reconciliation occur much less often than expected, suggesting there is scope for implementing methods of safe prescribing to prevent adverse drug effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Panchal
- Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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123
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Hersh LR, Beldowski K, Hajjar ER. Polypharmacy in the Geriatric Oncology Population. Curr Oncol Rep 2017; 19:73. [DOI: 10.1007/s11912-017-0632-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Abstract
Aging poses an unique opportunity to study cancer biology and treatment in older adults. Breast cancer is often studied in young women; however, much investigation remains to be done on breast cancer in our expanding elderly population. Diagnostic and management strategies applicable to younger patients cannot be empirically used to manage older breast cancer patients. Lack of evidence-based data continues to be the major impediment toward delivery of personalized cancer care to elderly breast cancer patients. This article reviews the relevant literature on management of curable breast cancer in the elderly, the role of geriatric assessment, complex treatment decision making within the context of patient's expected life expectancy, comorbidities, physical function, socioeconomic status, barriers to health care delivery, goals of treatment, and therapy-related side effects. Continuing efforts for enrolling elderly breast cancer patients in contemporary clinical trials, and thus improving age-appropriate care, are emphasized.
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Jeong YM, Lee KE, Lee ES, Kim KI, Chung JE, Lee BK, Gwak HS. Preoperative medication use and its association with postoperative length of hospital stay in surgical oncology patients receiving comprehensive geriatric assessment. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 18:12-19. [PMID: 28776893 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.13127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIM The present study aimed to investigate whether preoperative medication use is associated with postoperative length of hospital stay in older adults undergoing cancer surgery. METHODS Patients aged ≥65 years who were scheduled for cancer surgery and presented for preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment were included in the present study. Cognitive function evaluation and preoperative medication review were carried out, as well as baseline characteristics of participants collected from electronic medical records. The primary efficacy variable was the postoperative length of stay (LOS) in hospital. RESULTS A total of 475 cancer patients were included for the analysis. Baseline characteristics of participants including older age, lower body mass index (BMI) and male sex were associated with longer postoperative stay. Among the clinical variables, cancer type, number of medications, potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) and delirium-inducing medication were found as statistically significant factors for postoperative LOS. In multivariate analysis, variables independently associated with postoperative LOS were cancer type, PIM use, BMI, and the number of medications after controlling for age, BMI, sex, cancer type, the number of medications, PIM, and delirium-inducing medication. In subgroup analysis of gastrointestinal cancer, multiple linear regression analysis showed that PIM use and BMI were significantly associated with LOS after adjustment for age, sex, and number of medication. CONCLUSIONS The present study supports the impact of medication use on postoperative LOS in geriatric oncology patients. The results add a further aspect to medication optimization in older patients undergoing cancer surgery. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 12-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Mi Jeong
- Department of Pharmacy, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea.,College of Pharmacy & Division of Life Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Eun Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
| | - Eun Sook Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Kwang Ill Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jee Eun Chung
- College of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon-si, Korea
| | - Byung Koo Lee
- College of Pharmacy & Division of Life Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Sun Gwak
- College of Pharmacy & Division of Life Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
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Nightingale G, Hajjar E, Pizzi LT, Wang M, Pigott E, Doherty S, Prioli KM, Swartz K, Chapman AE. Implementing a pharmacist-led, individualized medication assessment and planning (iMAP) intervention to reduce medication related problems among older adults with cancer. J Geriatr Oncol 2017; 8:296-302. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2017.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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129
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Exploring the Impact of Human Papillomavirus Status, Comorbidity, Polypharmacy, and Treatment Intensity on Outcome of Elderly Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients Treated With Radiation Therapy With or Without Chemotherapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2017; 98:858-867. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2016.11.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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130
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Reis CM, dos Santos AG, de Jesus Souza P, Reis AMM. Factors associated with the use of potentially inappropriate medications by older adults with cancer. J Geriatr Oncol 2017; 8:303-307. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2017.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Revised: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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132
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Cuellar S, Vozniak M, Rhodes J, Forcello N, Olszta D. BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2017; 24:433-452. [PMID: 28580869 PMCID: PMC6094551 DOI: 10.1177/1078155217710553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The management of chronic myeloid leukemia with BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors has evolved chronic myeloid leukemia into a chronic, manageable disease. A patient-centered approach is important for the appropriate management of chronic myeloid leukemia and optimization of long-term treatment outcomes. The pharmacist plays a key role in treatment selection, monitoring drug–drug interactions, identification and management of adverse events, and educating patients on adherence. The combination of tyrosine kinase inhibitors with unique safety profiles and individual patients with unique medical histories can make managing treatment difficult. This review will provide up-to-date information regarding tyrosine kinase inhibitor-based treatment of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. Management strategies for adverse events and considerations for drug–drug interactions will not only vary among patients but also across tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Drug–drug interactions can be mild to severe. In instances where co-administration of concomitant medications cannot be avoided, it is critical to understand how drug levels are impacted and how subsequent dose modifications ensure therapeutic drug levels are maintained. An important component of patient-centered management of chronic myeloid leukemia also includes educating patients on the significance of early and regular monitoring of therapeutic milestones, emphasizing the importance of adhering to treatment in achieving these targets, and appropriately modifying treatment if these clinical goals are not being met. Overall, staying apprised of current research, utilizing the close pharmacist–patient relationship, and having regular interactions with patients, will help achieve successful long-term treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia in the age of BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Cuellar
- 1 Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Pharmacy, USA
| | - Michael Vozniak
- 2 Pharmacy Department, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jill Rhodes
- 3 Department of Pharmacy, University of Louisville Hospital, USA
| | - Nicholas Forcello
- 4 Department of Pharmacy Services, Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven, USA
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Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to examine correlates of polypharmacy among underserved community-dwelling older African American adults. Methods. This study recruited 400 underserved older African Americans adults living in South Los Angeles. The structured face-to-face interviews collected data on participants' characteristics and elicited data pertaining to the type, frequency, dosage, and indications of all medications used by participants. Results. Seventy-five and thirty percent of participants take at least five and ten medications per day, respectively. Thirty-eight percent of participants received prescription medications from at least three providers. Inappropriate drug use occurred among seventy percent of the participants. Multivariate analysis showed that number of providers was the strongest correlate of polypharmacy. Moreover, data show that gender, comorbidity, and potentially inappropriate medication use are other major correlates of polypharmacy. Conclusions. This study shows a high rate of polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate medication use among underserved older African American adults. We documented strong associations between polypharmacy and use of potentially inappropriate medications, comorbidities, and having multiple providers. Polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate medications may be attributed to poor coordination and management of medications among providers and pharmacists. There is an urgent need to develop innovative and effective strategies to reduce inappropriate polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate medication in underserved elderly minority populations.
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Caffiero N, Delate T, Ehizuelen MD, Vogel K. Effectiveness of a Clinical Pharmacist Medication Therapy Management Program in Discontinuation of Drugs to Avoid in the Elderly. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2017; 23:525-531. [PMID: 28448783 PMCID: PMC10398197 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2017.23.5.525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite evidence of fall risk associated with some drugs to avoid in the elderly (DAEs), many aged patients continue to receive them. OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness of a clinical pharmacist medication therapy management program (MTM) on discontinuation of prescribed DAEs. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at an integrated health care delivery system. Kaiser Permanente Colorado beneficiaries aged ≥65 years who were MTM-eligible and targeted for a DAE dispensing between 01/01/2015 and 09/30/2015 were included in the observation group. Medicare beneficiaries who were not eligible for MTM but had a targeted DAE dispensing during the same time period were included in the control group. The percentage of patients with another DAE dispensing of the same specified medication (no matter the strength) during the 100 days following index DAE dispensing was assessed. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS A total of 9,059 Medicare beneficiaries were included, with 226 beneficiaries in the MTM group and 8,833 beneficiaries in the non-MTM group. Beneficiaries were primarily female and white and had a high burden of chronic disease. The percentages of patients with another dispensing of the specified DAE were 7.1% (95% CI = 3.7%-10.4%) for the MTM beneficiaries and 35.3% (95% CI 34.2%-36.2%) for the non-MTM beneficiaries (P < 0.001). The OR for the MTM group to have received another dispensing of the specified DAE was 0.12 (95% CI = 0.08-0.22) with adjustment for potential confounders. CONCLUSIONS A clinical pharmacist-provided MTM intervention was associated with decreased DAE dispensing in Medicare beneficiaries. Future studies should evaluate means to further decrease DAE use in the aged. DISCLOSURES This study was funded by the Kaiser Permanente Colorado Pharmacy Department. The funder had no role in the study design, collection, analysis and interpretation of data, writing of the report, or the decision to submit the manuscript for publication. Delate has received grant funding from Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson outside of this study. The authors report no other disclosures. Delate supervised the study and had complete access to the data and takes responsibility for the data integrity. Study concept and design were contributed by Caffiero, Delate, Ehizuelen, and Vogel. Delate collected the data, assisted by the other authors, and analysis and interpretation of the data were provided by Ehizuelen and Vogel, along with Caffiero and Delate. The manuscript was written by Caffiero and Delate, with assistance from Ehizuelen and Vogel, and revised by all the authors. Preliminary findings from this study were presented at the Mountain States Conference for Pharmacy Residents, Fellows, and Preceptors on May 13, 2016, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Delate
- 2 Pharmacy Department, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, and Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | | | - Kris Vogel
- 1 Pharmacy Department, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora
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van Erning FN, Zanders MM, Kuiper JG, van Herk-Sukel MP, Maas HA, Vingerhoets RW, Zimmerman DD, de Feyter EP, van de Poll ME, Lemmens VE. Drug dispensings among elderly in the year before colon cancer diagnosis versus matched cancer-free controls. J Clin Pharm Ther 2017; 41:538-45. [PMID: 27549909 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE The concomitant use of multiple drugs is common among the general population of elderly. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of which drugs are dispensed to elderly in the year before colon cancer diagnosis and to compare this with cancer-free controls. METHODS Data from the Eindhoven Cancer Registry were linked to the PHARMO Database Network. Patients with colon cancer aged ≥70 years were included and matched with controls on gender, year of birth and postal code. Proportions of cases and controls with ≥1 dispensing of each WHO ATC-2-level drug during the total year and during each quarter of the year were calculated and differences between cases and controls tested. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Proportion of cases with ≥1 drug dispensing was highest for drugs for constipation (cases vs. controls 58% vs. 10%), antithrombotics (42% vs. 33%), drugs for acid-related disorders (35% vs. 22%), antibacterials (34% vs. 24%), agents acting on the renin-angiotensin system (33% vs. 27%), beta-blockers (33% vs. 23%), lipid-modifying agents (29% vs. 22%), diuretics (29% vs. 21%), psycholeptics (25% vs. 18%) and antianaemics (23% vs. 6%). The proportion of cases with ≥1 drug dispensing increased from the first to the last quarter of the year for drugs for constipation (7%-53%), drugs for acid-related disorders (16%-27%), antibacterials (12%-16%), beta-blockers (26%-28%), psycholeptics (15%-19%) and antianaemics (6%-18%). Elevated proportions of cases with ≥1 drug dispensing for several drugs are mostly related to comorbidity, although increasing proportions of cases with ≥1 drug dispensing for certain drugs during the year can be attributed to the incidence of colon cancer. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION We have provided insight into which drugs are commonly used in the year preceding colon cancer diagnosis. This may trigger general practitioners and medical specialists to further evaluate the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- F N van Erning
- Department of Research, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Eindhoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M M Zanders
- Department of Research, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Eindhoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Máxima Medical Center, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - J G Kuiper
- PHARMO Institute for Drug Outcomes Research, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - H A Maas
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - R W Vingerhoets
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - D D Zimmerman
- Department of Surgery, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - E P de Feyter
- Department of General Practice, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,General Practice Emmers, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - M E van de Poll
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Máxima Medical Center, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - V E Lemmens
- Department of Research, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Eindhoven, The Netherlands.,Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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136
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Mizokami F, Mizuno T, Mori T, Nagamatsu T, Endo H, Hirashita T, Ichino T, Akishita M, Furuta K. Clinical medication review tool for polypharmacy: Mapping approach for pharmacotherapeutic classifications. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17:2025-2033. [DOI: 10.1111/ggi.13014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiro Mizokami
- Department of Pharmacy; National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology; Obu Japan
| | - Tomohiro Mizuno
- Analytical Pharmacology; Meijo University Graduate School of Pharmacy; Nagoya Japan
| | - Tomoyo Mori
- Analytical Pharmacology; Meijo University Graduate School of Pharmacy; Nagoya Japan
| | - Tadashi Nagamatsu
- Analytical Pharmacology; Meijo University Graduate School of Pharmacy; Nagoya Japan
| | - Hideharu Endo
- Department of Pharmacy; Gifu Prefectural General Medical Center; Gifu Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hirashita
- Department of Pharmacy; Gifu Prefectural General Medical Center; Gifu Japan
| | | | - Masahiro Akishita
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine; The University of Tokyo; Tokyo Japan
| | - Katsunori Furuta
- Department of Pharmacy; National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology; Obu Japan
- Pressure Ulcer Care Center; Kobayashi Health Care System Kobayashi Memorial Hospital; Hekinan Japan
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137
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Is my older cancer patient on too many medications? J Geriatr Oncol 2017; 8:77-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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138
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Lucena M, Bondarenka C, Luehrs-Hayes G, Perez A. Evaluation of a medication intensity screening tool used in malignant hematology and bone marrow transplant services to identify patients at risk for medication-related problems. J Oncol Pharm Pract 2017; 24:243-252. [PMID: 29284343 DOI: 10.1177/1078155217690923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background In 2014, a screening tool was implemented at Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Health to identify patients who are at risk for medication-related events. Patients are classified as high-risk if they meet one of the following criteria: receiving anticoagulation therapy, taking more than 10 scheduled medications upon admission, or readmission within the past 30 days. The goal of this study was to determine risk criteria specific to the malignant hematology (MH) and bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients. Methods A retrospective chart review of 114 patients admitted and discharged from the MH/BMT services between 1 September 2015 and 31 October 2015 was performed. A pharmacist-conducted medication history was completed and documented, and all interventions at admission and throughout hospitalization were categorized by severity and by value of service. The primary objective was to evaluate if patients in the MH/BMT services have more medication-related interventions documented upon admission compared with patients who are not screened as high risk. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the different types and severities of interventions made by pharmacists during the entire hospital stay, and to determine if there are certain characteristics that can help identify hematology/oncology high-risk patients. Results More interventions documented upon admission in the high-risk group as a whole when compared with the not high-risk group (73 vs. 31), but when normalized per patients in each group, there was an equal number of interventions (1.0). The most common interventions were to modify regimen (36%) and discontinue therapy (16%). The patient characteristics associated with high-risk included neutropenia, lower average platelet counts on admission, and longer length of stay. Conclusion The screening tool does not further differentiate an already complex MH/BMT patient population. Pharmacists may be more useful at capturing errors or changes during a patient's hospital stay instead of upon admission. Thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and active infections may correlate with higher-risk status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Lucena
- MUSC Medical Center/South Carolina College of Pharmacy Residency Program, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Carolyn Bondarenka
- MUSC Medical Center/South Carolina College of Pharmacy Residency Program, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Genevieve Luehrs-Hayes
- MUSC Medical Center/South Carolina College of Pharmacy Residency Program, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Andy Perez
- MUSC Medical Center/South Carolina College of Pharmacy Residency Program, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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139
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Vallet-Regí M, Manzano M, Rodriguez-Mañas L, Checa López M, Aapro M, Balducci L. Management of Cancer in the Older Age Person: An Approach to Complex Medical Decisions. Oncologist 2017; 22:335-342. [PMID: 28220025 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2016-0276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of cancer in older aged people is becoming a common problem due to the aging of the population. There are many variables determining the complex situation that are interconnected. Some of them can be assessed, such as risk of mortality and risk of treatment complications, but many others are still unknown, such as the course of disease, the host-related factors that influence cancer aggressiveness, and the phenotype heralding risk of permanent treatment-related damage.This article presents a dynamic and personalized approach to older people with cancer based on our experience on aging, cancer, and their biological interactions. Also, novel treatments and management approaches to older individuals, based on their functional age and their social and emotional needs, are thoughtfully explored here. The Oncologist 2017;22:335-342 IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The goal of this article is to suggest a practical approach to complexity, a clinical situation becoming increasingly common with the aging of the population. Beginning with the analysis of two clinical cases, the authors offer an algorithm for approaching cancer in the older person that involves the assessment of life expectancy without cancer, the risk that cancer might compromise a patient's survival, function, or quality of life, and the potential benefits and risks of the treatments based on a clinical evaluation. The authors then review possible laboratory assessment of functional age and the importance of rapid-learning databases in the study of cancer and age.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Vallet-Regí
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica y Bioinorgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital, 12 de Octubre i+12, Madrid, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Manzano
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica y Bioinorgánica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital, 12 de Octubre i+12, Madrid, Spain
- Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Marta Checa López
- Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain
| | - Matti Aapro
- Breast Center, IMO Clinique de Genolier, Genolier, Switzerland
| | - Lodovico Balducci
- University of South Florida, College of Medicine, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, Senior Adult Oncology Program, Tampa, Florida, USA
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140
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Palmaro A, Rougé-Bugat ME, Gauthier M, Despas F, Moulis G, Lapeyre-Mestre M. Real-life practices for preventing venous thromboembolism in multiple myeloma patients: a cohort study from the French health insurance database. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2017; 26:578-586. [PMID: 28198064 DOI: 10.1002/pds.4180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The risk of venous thromboembolic event (VTE) in multiple myeloma is particularly increased. Current guidelines recommend systematic VTE prophylaxis with vitamin K antagonists (VKA) or low weight molecular heparin (LWMH) or unfractionated heparin (UFH) in high-risk patients, based on treatment received [e.g. use of IMiDs (thalidomide, lenalidomide and pomalidomide), alkylating agents or erythropoietin] and individual risk factors (e.g. history of VTE). The aim of this study was to describe strategy of VTE prophylaxis and prescribing of other antithrombotic agents during the first 6 months of multiple myeloma therapy, with stratification on IMiD-based regimens and drug and disease-related risk factors. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of French beneficiaries from the health insurance database (SNIIRAM, Système National d'Information Inter-Régime de l'Assurance Maladie) was designed in the Midi-Pyrénées area (South West France). Patients starting a treatment for multiple myeloma in the period 2011-2014 were identified through hospital and chronic disease diagnoses. RESULTS Among the 236 incident multiple myeloma patients, 56% male (n = 133), 67% >65 years (n = 159) and 47% (n = 110) patients received an IMiD-based regimen. In these patients, 63% (n = 69) were identified as high-risk patients with indication for low molecular weight heparin or equivalent, and 37% (n = 41) were identified as low-risk with aspirin recommended. Among the high-risk IMiDs patients, 43% (30/69) currently received a VTE prophylaxis after starting their first regimen: 70% LWMH (21/30), 40% VKA (12/30), 10% UFH (3/30) and 13% (4/30) other drugs (rivaroxaban and fondaparinux); 33% of the patients (23/69) received an antiplatelet drug only, and 23% (16/69) did not receive any antithrombotic drug. CONCLUSIONS These results revealed lack of implementation of VTE prophylaxis in one out of high-risk multiple myeloma patients with IMiD. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Palmaro
- Medical and Clinical Pharmacology department, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.,UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,CIC 1436, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Marie-Eve Rougé-Bugat
- UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Academic Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Toulouse, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Martin Gauthier
- Department of Haematology, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Fabien Despas
- Medical and Clinical Pharmacology department, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.,UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,CIC 1436, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Guillaume Moulis
- Medical and Clinical Pharmacology department, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.,UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,CIC 1436, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.,Department of Internal Medicine, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Maryse Lapeyre-Mestre
- Medical and Clinical Pharmacology department, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.,UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,CIC 1436, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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141
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Rougé Bugat ME, Bourgouin M, Gérard S, Lozano S, Brechemier D, Cestac P, Cool C, Balardy L. Drug Prescription Including Interactions with Anticancer Treatments in the Elderly: A Global Approach. J Nutr Health Aging 2017; 21:849-854. [PMID: 28972235 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-017-0946-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Consequences of inappropriate prescriptions and polymedication in patients suffering from cancer are beginning to be well documented. However, the methods used to evaluate these consequences are often discussed. Few studies evaluate the risk of interaction with anticancer drugs in elderly patients suffering from cancer. OBJECTIVES To describe the prevalence (i) of polypharmacy, (ii) of potentially inappropriate drug prescriptions and (iii) of drug interactions involving anticancer treatments, using a multiple reference tools. DESIGN A retrospective, cross-sectional, multicenter study performed from January to December 2012. PARTICIPANTS Patients aged 65 years or older suffering from cancer presented at the oncogeriatric multidisciplinary meeting. MEASUREMENTS Polymedication (>6 drugs), potentially inappropriate prescriptions and drug interactions involving anticancer treatment were analyzed in combination with explicit and implicit criteria within a global approach. RESULTS Among the 106 patients included in this study, polypharmacy was present in 60.4% of cases, potentially inappropriate drug prescription in 63.1% and drug interactions in 16% of case, of which 47% involved anti-cancer treatments. Twenty-seven major drug interactions were identified and eight interactions involved chemotherapy. CONCLUSION Polymedication, inappropriate prescribing and drug interactions involving anti-cancer drugs are common and largely underestimated in elderly cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-E Rougé Bugat
- Marie-Eve Rougé Bugat, MD PhD, DESC Oncology, 59 rue de la Providence, 31500 Toulouse, France, +33561800123, +33683058806,
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Garfinkel D. Overview of current and future research and clinical directions for drug discontinuation: psychological, traditional and professional obstacles to deprescribing. Eur J Hosp Pharm 2017; 24:16-20. [PMID: 31156891 DOI: 10.1136/ejhpharm-2016-000959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The vicious circle of age-related diseases, many experts and guidelines/drugs fuels the 21st century iatrogenic epidemic of inappropriate medication use and polypharmacy. There are no evidence-based medicine (EBM) 'guidelines' for treating older people, and knowledge gaps regarding dosage requirements. For all drugs, the positive benefit/risk ratio is decreasing/inverted in correlation to very old age, comorbidity, dementia, frailty and limited life-expectancy (VOCODFLEX). Main obstacles to routine deprescribing are emotional/psychological myths; patient-doctor interactions are expected to be transformed into prescription; doctors are perceived as expert prescribers who wisely choose the right medication/s to treat all diseases. Although most 'guidelines' were not proven in older people, particularly VOCODFLEX, doctors are afraid of lawsuits and of the patient/family reaction if they do not follow all experts' recommendations. Doctors are frustrated facing uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of strategies to reduce polypharmacy and the lack of EBM indicating when to de-prescribe. When explicit criteria and 'drugs to avoid' are used alone, we may disregard undiagnosed harms imposed by the remaining drug groups and interactions. The best approaches are implicit tools that take into consideration EBM data, clinical circumstances and medical judgement. The Garfinkel Good Palliative-Geriatric Practice method recommends deprescribing of as many drugs as possible simultaneously, giving high priority to patient/family preferences. It was proven highly effective and safe in nursing departments and in community-dwelling elders, having significant economic benefits as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doron Garfinkel
- Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Homecare Service, Israel Cancer Association, Givatayim, Israel
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143
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Finkelstein J, Friedman C, Hripcsak G, Cabrera M. Pharmacogenetic polymorphism as an independent risk factor for frequent hospitalizations in older adults with polypharmacy: a pilot study. PHARMACOGENOMICS & PERSONALIZED MEDICINE 2016; 9:107-116. [PMID: 27789970 PMCID: PMC5072537 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s117014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacogenetic testing identifies genetic biomarkers that are predictive of individual sensitivity to particular drugs. A significant proportion of medications that are widely prescribed for older adults are metabolized by enzymes that are encoded by highly polymorphic genes. Pharmacogenetic testing is increasingly used to optimize the medication regimen; however, its potential in older adults with polypharmacy has not been systematically explored. Following the initial case-series study, this study hypothesized that frequently hospitalized older adults with polypharmacy have higher frequency of pharmacogenetic polymorphism as compared to older adults with polypharmacy who are rarely admitted to a hospital. To test this hypothesis, a nested case-control study was conducted with pharmacogenetic polymorphism as an exposure and hospitalization rate as an outcome. In this study, frequently hospitalized older adults (≥65 years of age) with polypharmacy were matched with rarely hospitalized older adults with poly-pharmacy by age, gender, race, ethnicity, and chronic disease score. Average age and number of prescription drugs did not differ in cases and controls (77.2±5.0 and 78.3±5.1 years, 14.3±5.3 and 14.0±2.9 medications, respectively). No statistically significant difference in sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics that are known to affect hospitalization risk was found between the cases and controls. Major pharmacogenetic polymorphism defined as presence of at least one allelic combination resulting in poor or rapid metabolizer status was identified in all the cases. No major pharmacogenetic polymorphisms were detected in controls. Based on the exact McNemar's test, the difference in major pharmacogenetic polymorphism frequency between cases and controls was statistically significant (p<0.05). In 50% of cases, more than one major pharmacogenetic polymorphism was found. The frequency of CYP2C19 rapid metabolizer, CYP3A4/5 poor metabolizer, VKORC1 low sensitivity, and CYP2D6 rapid metabolizer status in cases was 67%, 33%, 33%, and 17%, respectively, which significantly exceeded respective prevalence in general population. The mean number of major gene-drug interactions found in cases was 2.8±2.2, whereas no major drug-gene interactions were identified in controls. The difference in the number of major drug-gene interactions between cases and controls was statistically significant (p<0.05). The pilot data supported the hypothesis that pharmacogenetic polymorphism may represent an independent risk factor for frequent hospitalizations in older adults with polypharmacy. Due to small sample size, the results of this proof-of-concept study cannot be conclusive. Further work on the utility of pharmacogenetic testing for optimization of medication regimens in this vulnerable group of older adults is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Manuel Cabrera
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
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144
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Alkan A, Yaşar A, Karcı E, Köksoy EB, Ürün M, Şenler FÇ, Ürün Y, Tuncay G, Ergün H, Akbulut H. Severe drug interactions and potentially inappropriate medication usage in elderly cancer patients. Support Care Cancer 2016; 25:229-236. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3409-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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145
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Steer CB. Supportive care in older adults with cancer – An update of research in 2015. J Geriatr Oncol 2016; 7:397-403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2016.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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146
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Burhenn PS, McCarthy AL, Begue A, Nightingale G, Cheng K, Kenis C. Geriatric assessment in daily oncology practice for nurses and allied health care professionals: Opinion paper of the Nursing and Allied Health Interest Group of the International Society of Geriatric Oncology (SIOG). J Geriatr Oncol 2016; 7:315-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2016.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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147
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Hilscher MB, Odell LJ, Myhre LJ, Prokop L, Talwalkar J. The pharmacotherapy of cirrhosis: concerns and proposed investigations and solutions. J Clin Pharm Ther 2016; 41:587-591. [PMID: 27576303 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE The presence of cirrhosis has a multifaceted impact on hepatic drug metabolism. An area of concern and uncertainty in the care of patients with cirrhosis is the safe use of both prescription and over-the-counter medications. COMMENT Retrospective studies indicate a high incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) among patients with cirrhosis related to use of certain medication classes including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Conversely, use of appropriate medications, such as statins, may be decreased in this population due to fear of precipitating hepatotoxicity. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION Pharmacotherapy in cirrhosis is an area of uncertainty and heterogeneity in clinical practice. Prescribing and dosing guidelines are needed to decrease the risk of serious ADRs in this high-risk patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- M B Hilscher
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| | - L J Odell
- Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - L J Myhre
- Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - L Prokop
- Department of Education Administration, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - J Talwalkar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Jamani R, Lee EK, Berry SR, Saluja R, DeAngelis C, Giotis A, Emmenegger U. High prevalence of potential drug-drug interactions in patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer treated with abiraterone acetate. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 72:1391-1399. [DOI: 10.1007/s00228-016-2120-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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149
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Mohile SG, Hurria A, Cohen HJ, Rowland JH, Leach CR, Arora NK, Canin B, Muss HB, Magnuson A, Flannery M, Lowenstein L, Allore HG, Mustian KM, Demark-Wahnefried W, Extermann M, Ferrell B, Inouye SK, Studenski SA, Dale W. Improving the quality of survivorship for older adults with cancer. Cancer 2016; 122:2459-568. [PMID: 27172129 PMCID: PMC4974133 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.30053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In May 2015, the Cancer and Aging Research Group, in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute on Aging through a U13 grant, convened a conference to identify research priorities to help design and implement intervention studies to improve the quality of life and survivorship of older, frailer adults with cancer. Conference attendees included researchers with multidisciplinary expertise and advocates. It was concluded that future intervention trials for older adults with cancer should: 1) rigorously test interventions to prevent the decline of or improve health status, especially interventions focused on optimizing physical performance, nutritional status, and cognition while undergoing cancer treatment; 2) use standardized care plans based on geriatric assessment findings to guide targeted interventions; and 3) incorporate the principles of geriatrics into survivorship care plans. Also highlighted was the need to integrate the expertise of interdisciplinary team members into geriatric oncology research, improve funding mechanisms to support geriatric oncology research, and disseminate high-impact results to the research and clinical community. In conjunction with the 2 prior U13 meetings, this conference provided the framework for future research to improve the evidence base for the clinical care of older adults with cancer. Cancer 2016;122:2459-68. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya G Mohile
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | - Arti Hurria
- Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California
| | - Harvey J Cohen
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Julia H Rowland
- Office of Cancer Survivorship, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Corinne R Leach
- Office of Cancer Survivorship, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Neeraj K Arora
- Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, Washington, DC
| | | | - Hyman B Muss
- Breast Cancer, Geriatric Oncology Program, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Allison Magnuson
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | - Marie Flannery
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | - Lisa Lowenstein
- Department of Health Services Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Heather G Allore
- Department of Medicine and Public Health Services, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Karen M Mustian
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York
| | | | - Martine Extermann
- Senior Adult Oncology Program, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Betty Ferrell
- Department of Nursing, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California
| | - Sharon K Inouye
- Institute of Aging Research, Hebrew SeniorLife, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - William Dale
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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150
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Sharma M, Loh KP, Nightingale G, Mohile SG, Holmes HM. Polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate medication use in geriatric oncology. J Geriatr Oncol 2016; 7:346-53. [PMID: 27498305 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2016.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2016] [Revised: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Polypharmacy is a highly prevalent problem in older persons, and is challenging to assess and improve due to variations in definitions of the problem and the heterogeneous methods of medication review and reduction. The purpose of this review is to summarize evidence regarding the prevalence and impact of polypharmacy in geriatric oncology patients and to provide recommendations for assessment and management. Polypharmacy has somewhat variably been incorporated into geriatric assessment studies in geriatric oncology, and polypharmacy has not been consistently evaluated as a predictor of negative outcomes in patients with cancer. Once screened, interventions for polypharmacy are even more uncertain. There is a great need to create standardized interventions to improve polypharmacy in geriatrics, and particularly in geriatric oncology. The process of deprescribing is aimed at reducing medications for which real or potential harm outweighs benefit, and there are numerous methods to determine which medications are candidates for deprescribing. However, deprescribing approaches have not been evaluated in older patients with cancer. Ultimately, methods to identify polypharmacy will need to be clearly defined and validated, and interventions to improve medication use will need to be based on clearly defined and standardized methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manvi Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Kah Poh Loh
- James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Ginah Nightingale
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Jefferson College of Pharmacy, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Supriya G Mohile
- James P. Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Holly M Holmes
- Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA.
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