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Liu BM, Redston MR, Fujita K, Thillainadesan J, Gnjidic D, Hilmer SN. The Impact of Deprescribing Interventions on the Drug Burden Index and Other Outcomes: A Systematic Review. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2024; 25:105021. [PMID: 38763161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2024.105021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Drug Burden Index (DBI) calculates a person's exposure to anticholinergic and sedative medications. We aimed to review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of deprescribing interventions that reported the DBI as an outcome, their characteristics, effectiveness in reducing the DBI, and impact on other outcomes. DESIGN Systematic review with meta-analysis. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS RCTs of deprescribing interventions where the DBI was measured as a primary or secondary outcome in humans within any setting were included. METHODS Electronic databases, citation indexes, and gray literature were searched from April 1, 2007, to September 1, 2023. Quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. RESULTS Of 1721 records identified, 9 met the inclusion criteria. Six interventions were delivered by pharmacists and 3 were delivered by pharmacists/nurses or pharmacists/geriatricians. All interventions required at least intermediate-level skills and involved multiple components and target groups. Studies were conducted in the community (n = 5), nursing homes (n = 2), and hospitals (n = 2). The mean or median age was ≥75 years and most participants were women in all studies. Most (n = 6) studies were underpowered. The follow-up period ranged from 3 to 12 months. Three studies reported a lower DBI in the intervention group compared with control: 1 pharmacist independent prescriber-delivered in nursing homes (adjusted rate ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74 to 0.92), 1 pharmacist/nurse practitioner-delivered in hospital (adjusted mean difference (MD), -0.28; 95% CI, -0.51 to -0.04), and 1 geriatrician/pharmacist-delivered in hospital (MD, -0.28; 95% CI, -0.52 to -0.04). Meta-analysis showed no difference in the change in DBI between control and intervention groups in the community including nursing homes (MD, -0.03; 95% CI, -0.08 to 0.01) or hospital setting (MD, -0.19; 95% CI, -0.45 to 0.06). Interventions had inconsistent effects on cognition and no effect on other reported outcomes. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS RCTs of deprescribing interventions had no significant impact on reducing DBI or improving outcomes. Further suitably powered studies are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie M Liu
- Ageing and Pharmacology Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney and the Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia; Aged Care Department, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Mitchell R Redston
- St George and Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kenji Fujita
- Ageing and Pharmacology Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney and the Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Janani Thillainadesan
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Concord Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Danijela Gnjidic
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah N Hilmer
- Ageing and Pharmacology Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney and the Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia; Aged Care Department, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Clinical Pharmacology Department, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Wang J, Shen JY, Conwell Y, Podsiadly EJ, Caprio TV, Nathan K, Yu F, Ramsdale EE, Fick DM, Mixon AS, Simmons SF. Implementation considerations of deprescribing interventions: A scoping review. J Intern Med 2024; 295:436-507. [PMID: 36524602 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Over half of older adults experience polypharmacy, including medications that may be inappropriate or unnecessary. Deprescribing, which is the process of discontinuing or reducing inappropriate and/or unnecessary medications, is an effective way to reduce polypharmacy. This review summarizes (1) the process of deprescribing and conceptual models and tools that have been developed to facilitate deprescribing, (2) barriers, enablers, and factors associated with deprescribing, and (3) characteristics of deprescribing interventions in completed trials, as well as (4) implementation considerations for deprescribing in routine practice. In conceptual models of deprescribing, multilevel factors of the patient, clinician, and health-care system are all related to the efficacy of deprescribing. Numerous tools have been developed for clinicians to facilitate deprescribing, yet most require substantial time and, thus, may be difficult to implement during routine health-care encounters. Multiple deprescribing interventions have been evaluated, which mostly include one or more of the following components: patient education, medication review, identification of deprescribing targets, and patient and/or provider communication about high-risk medications. Yet, there has been limited consideration of implementation factors in prior deprescribing interventions, especially with regard to the personnel and resources in existing health-care systems and the feasibility of incorporating components of deprescribing interventions into the routine care processes of clinicians. Future trials require a more balanced consideration of both effectiveness and implementation when designing deprescribing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjiao Wang
- Elaine, Hubbard Center for Nursing Research on Aging, School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jenny Y Shen
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Yeates Conwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Eric J Podsiadly
- Harriet J. Kitzman Center for Research Support, School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Thomas V Caprio
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics & Aging, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
- UR Medicine Home Care, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Finger Lakes Geriatric Education Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Kobi Nathan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics & Aging, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
- St. John Fisher College, Wegmans School of Pharmacy, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Fang Yu
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Erika E Ramsdale
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Donna M Fick
- Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing, Penn State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amanda S Mixon
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Medicine, Center for Quality Aging, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sandra F Simmons
- Department of Medicine, Center for Quality Aging, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Weir KR, Jungo KT, Streit S. Older adults' adherence to medications and willingness to deprescribe: A substudy of a randomized clinical trial. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2024; 90:905-911. [PMID: 37953525 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Our study investigated the association between patients' willingness to have medications deprescribed and medication adherence. This longitudinal substudy of the 'Optimizing PharmacoTherapy In the Multimorbid Elderly in Primary CAre' (OPTICA) trial, a cluster randomized controlled trial, took place in Swiss primary care settings. Participants were aged ≥65 years and over, with ≥3 chronic conditions and ≥5 regular medications. At baseline, the 'revised Patient Attitudes Towards Deprescribing' (rPATD) questionnaire was measured. The A14-scale measured adherence (self-report) at the 12-month follow-up. Multilevel linear regression analyses adjusted for baseline variables were performed. Of the 298 participants, 45% were women, and the median age was 78. Participants reported a high level of adherence and willingness to have medications deprescribed. We did not find evidence for an association between patients' willingness to deprescribe and medication adherence. Further research is needed to explore the relationship between these concepts and to inform collaborative decisions about medicines in the context of polypharmacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie Rebecca Weir
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Institute of Primary Health Care BIHAM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Tabea Jungo
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Institute of Primary Health Care BIHAM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Center for Healthcare Delivery Sciences, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sven Streit
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Institute of Primary Health Care BIHAM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Jungo KT, Weir KR, Cateau D, Streit S. Older adults' attitudes towards deprescribing and medication changes: a longitudinal sub-study of a cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e075325. [PMID: 38199626 PMCID: PMC10806786 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between older patients' willingness to have one or more medications deprescribed and: (1) change in medications, (2) change in the appropriateness of medications and (3) implementation of prescribing recommendations generated by the electronic decision support system tested in the 'Optimising PharmacoTherapy In the Multimorbid Elderly in Primary CAre' (OPTICA) trial. DESIGN A longitudinal sub-study of the OPTICA trial, a cluster randomised controlled trial. SETTING Swiss primary care settings. PARTICIPANTS Participants were aged ≥65 years, with ≥3 chronic conditions and ≥5 regular medications recruited from 43 general practitioner (GP) practices. EXPOSURES Patients' willingness to have medications deprescribed was assessed using three questions from the 'revised Patient Attitudes Towards Deprescribing' (rPATD) questionnaire and its concerns about stopping score. MEASURES/ANALYSES Medication-related outcomes were collected at 1 year follow-up. Aim 1 outcome: change in the number of long-term medications between baseline and 12 month follow-up. Aim 2 outcome: change in medication appropriateness (Medication Appropriateness Index). Aim 3 outcome: binary variable on whether any prescribing recommendation generated during the OPTICA medication review was implemented. We used multilevel linear regression analyses (aim 1 and aim 2) and multilevel logistic regression analyses (aim 3). Models were adjusted for sociodemographic variables and the clustering effect at GP level. RESULTS 298 patients completed the rPATD, 45% were women and 78 years was the median age. A statistically significant association was found between the concerns about stopping score and the change in the number of medications over time (per 1-unit increase in the score the average number of medications use was 0.65 higher; 95% CI: 0.08 to 1.22). Other than that we did not find evidence for statistically significant associations between patients' agreement with deprescribing and medication-related outcomes. CONCLUSIONS We did not find evidence for an association between most measures of patient agreement with deprescribing and medication-related outcomes over 1 year. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03724539.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Tabea Jungo
- Institute of Primary Health Care BIHAM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Center for Healthcare Delivery Sciences (C4HDS), Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kristie Rebecca Weir
- Institute of Primary Health Care BIHAM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Damien Cateau
- Community Pharmacy, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sven Streit
- Institute of Primary Health Care BIHAM, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Masnoon N, George C, Lo S, Tan E, Bordia A, Hilmer S. The outcomes of considering goals of care in medication reviews for older adults: a systematic review. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2024; 17:33-56. [PMID: 38145414 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2023.2286321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This is a systematic review of prescribing, clinical, patient-reported, and health utilization outcomes of goal-directed medication reviews in older adults. METHODS A systematic review was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS and CINAHL databases to identify studies examining outcomes of goal-directed medication reviews in humans, with mean/median age ≥ 60 years and in English. RESULTS Seventeen out of 743 articles identified were included. Whilst there were inconsistent findings regarding changes in the number of medications between groups or post-intervention in one group (n = 6 studies), studies found reductions in drug-related problems (n = 2) and potential to reduce anticholinergics and sedatives (n = 2). Two out of seven studies investigating clinical outcomes found improvements, such as reduced hospital readmissions and improved depression severity. One study found 75% of patients achieved ≥ 1 goals and another found 43% of goals were achieved at six months. Four out of five studies found significant improvements in patient-reported quality of life between groups (n = 2) or post-intervention in one group (n = 2). Both studies investigating cost-effectiveness reported the intervention was cost-effective. CONCLUSIONS There is evidence of positive impact on medication rationalization, quality of life and cost-effectiveness, supporting goal-directed medication reviews. Larger, longitudinal studies, exploring patient-focused outcomes may provide further insights into the ongoing impact of goal-directed medication reviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nashwa Masnoon
- Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney and Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Cristen George
- Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney and Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarita Lo
- Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney and Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Edwin Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Aagam Bordia
- Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney and Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah Hilmer
- Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney and Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Aged Care, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Kopf D. [Safe discontinuation of psychotropic drugs in older people? : New evidence and practical approach]. DER NERVENARZT 2024; 95:35-40. [PMID: 38189939 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-023-01600-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many older patients are permanently prescribed one or more psychotropic drugs for treatment of symptoms, such as behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia. They therefore contribute to the risk of polypharmacy. Recently, deprescribing studies have been published in order to clarify if inadequate medications can be safely discontinued. This mini-review summarizes the study results and derives practical recommendations for routine use. METHOD A literature search was carried out in PubMed for clinical studies on deprescribing in association with psychotropic substances. RESULTS After removal of duplications, 12 heterogeneous clinical studies were identified and reduction of psychotropic substances could be successfully achieved in 8 studies. In four of these studies psychological, behavioral and functional endpoints were reported. Criteria for successful deprescribing of sedatives were in particular motivation, information and sufficient cooperation of the patients and for antipsychotic drugs in people with dementia, the sustainable establishment of nonpharmaceutical treatment strategies. Deprescribing was not attempted in cases of a history of severe chronic mental illness and in cases of severe behavioral symptoms in dementia. Evidence for antidepressants was not sufficient to extract practical recommendations. CONCLUSION Safe deprescribing of antipsychotic drugs in patients with dementia is justified if non-pharmacological treatment options are sustainably implemented, and for sedative drugs in well-informed, highly motivated and cooperative patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Kopf
- Geriatrischer Schwerpunkt und Klinik für Geriatrie, Endokrinologie und Diabetologie, RKH-Kliniken Ludwigsburg/Bietigheim, Riedstr. 12, 74321, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Deutschland.
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Hui JH, Parikh S, Kouladjian O'Donnell L, Mcinerney B, Dillon L, Poojary S, Crabtree A. Pharmacist-led medication review in a residential in-reach service leads to deprescribing. Australas J Ageing 2023; 42:675-682. [PMID: 37198738 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.13215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the effect of a pharmacist-led medication review on deprescribing medications in a Residential In-Reach (RIR) service which provides acute care substitution to residential aged care residents. METHODS A pre-post observational study was conducted. Patient characteristics and admission and discharge medications were collected over two 3-month phases before (prephase) and after (postphase) the introduction of a pharmacist who performed a comprehensive medication review and provided deprescribing recommendations. The Screening Tool of Older Persons' Prescriptions (STOPP) version 2 was used to identify potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs). The Drug Burden Index (DBI) was used to measure cumulative anticholinergic and sedative medication burden. Outcome of deprescribing was measured by the reduction in the number of PIMs, DBI scores and proportion of polypharmacy from admission to discharge. RESULTS The prephase included 59 patients (mean age 87.3 years, 63% female), and the postphase included 88 patients (mean age 87.3 years, 63% female). There was a significant reduction in the mean number of PIMs (pre +0.05 ± 2.59 vs. post -0.78 ± 2.32, p = 0.04) and median DBI (pre -0.004 ± 0.17 vs. post -0.07 ± 0.2, p = 0.03) in postphase compared to prephase. The proportion of polypharmacy at discharge was reduced in the postphase (pre-100% vs. post-90%, p = 0.01). The most deprescribed PIMs as measured by STOPP in postphase were drugs without indication, cardiovascular system drugs and gastrointestinal system drugs. CONCLUSIONS The introduction of a pharmacist-led medication review in RIR service was associated with a significant reduction in the mean number of PIMs, median DBI and polypharmacy. Future studies are needed to determine whether deprescription is sustained to examine correlations to long-term patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Hao Hui
- Department of Home, Acute and Community, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Seema Parikh
- Department of Home, Acute and Community, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa Kouladjian O'Donnell
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Ageing, Kolling Institute, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brigid Mcinerney
- Department of Pharmacy, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louise Dillon
- Department of Home, Acute and Community, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suma Poojary
- Department of Home, Acute and Community, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amelia Crabtree
- Department of Home, Acute and Community, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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de Wildt KK, van de Loo B, Linn AJ, Medlock SK, Groos SS, Ploegmakers KJ, Seppala LJ, Bosmans JE, Abu-Hanna A, van Weert JCM, van Schoor NM, van der Velde N. Effects of a clinical decision support system and patient portal for preventing medication-related falls in older fallers: Protocol of a cluster randomized controlled trial with embedded process and economic evaluations (ADFICE_IT). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289385. [PMID: 37751429 PMCID: PMC10522018 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls are the leading cause of injury-related mortality and hospitalization among adults aged ≥ 65 years. An important modifiable fall-risk factor is use of fall-risk increasing drugs (FRIDs). However, deprescribing is not always attempted or performed successfully. The ADFICE_IT trial evaluates the combined use of a clinical decision support system (CDSS) and a patient portal for optimizing the deprescribing of FRIDs in older fallers. The intervention aims to optimize and enhance shared decision making (SDM) and consequently prevent injurious falls and reduce healthcare-related costs. METHODS A multicenter, cluster-randomized controlled trial with process evaluation will be conducted among hospitals in the Netherlands. We aim to include 856 individuals aged ≥ 65 years that visit the falls clinic due to a fall. The intervention comprises the combined use of a CDSS and a patient portal. The CDSS provides guideline-based advice with regard to deprescribing and an individual fall-risk estimation, as calculated by an embedded prediction model. The patient portal provides educational information and a summary of the patient's consultation. Hospitals in the control arm will provide care-as-usual. Fall-calendars will be used for measuring the time to first injurious fall (primary outcome) and secondary fall outcomes during one year. Other measurements will be conducted at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months and include quality of life, cost-effectiveness, feasibility, and shared decision-making measures. Data will be analyzed according to the intention-to-treat principle. Difference in time to injurious fall between the intervention and control group will be analyzed using multilevel Cox regression. DISCUSSION The findings of this study will add valuable insights about how digital health informatics tools that target physicians and older adults can optimize deprescribing and support SDM. We expect the CDSS and patient portal to aid in deprescribing of FRIDs, resulting in a reduction in falls and related injuries. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05449470 (7-7-2022).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly K. de Wildt
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bob van de Loo
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annemiek J. Linn
- Amsterdam School of Communication Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stephanie K. Medlock
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Informatics, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sara S. Groos
- Amsterdam School of Communication Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kim J. Ploegmakers
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lotta J. Seppala
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Judith E. Bosmans
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ameen Abu-Hanna
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Informatics, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Julia C. M. van Weert
- Amsterdam School of Communication Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Natasja M. van Schoor
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Nathalie van der Velde
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Braithwaite E, Todd OM, Atkin A, Hulatt R, Tadrous R, Alldred DP, Pirmohamed M, Walker L, Lawton R, Clegg A. Interventions for reducing anticholinergic medication burden in older adults-a systematic review and meta-analysis. Age Ageing 2023; 52:afad176. [PMID: 37740900 PMCID: PMC10517713 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afad176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anticholinergic medications block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain and peripheral nervous system. Many medications have anticholinergic properties, and the cumulative effect of these medications is termed anticholinergic burden. Increased anticholinergic burden can have short-term side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision and urinary retention as well as long-term effects including dementia, worsening physical function and falls. METHODS We carried out a systematic review (SR) with meta-analysis (MA) looking at randomised controlled trials addressing interventions to reduce anticholinergic burden in older adults. RESULTS We identified seven papers suitable for inclusion in our SR and MA. Interventions included multi-disciplinary involvement in medication reviews and deprescribing of AC medications. Pooled data revealed no significant difference in outcomes between control and intervention group for falls (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.52-1.11, n = 647), cognition (mean difference = 1.54, 95% CI: -0.04 to 3.13, n = 405), anticholinergic burden (mean difference = 0.04, 95% CI: -0.11 to 0.18, n = 710) or quality of life (mean difference = 0.04, 95% CI: -0.04 to 0.12, n = 461). DISCUSSION Overall, there was no significant difference with interventions to reduce anticholinergic burden. As we did not see a significant change in anticholinergic burden scores following interventions, it is likely other outcomes would not change. Short follow-up time and lack of training and support surrounding successful deprescribing may have contributed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve Braithwaite
- Academic Unit for Ageing and Stroke Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Oliver M Todd
- Academic Unit for Ageing and Stroke Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Abigail Atkin
- Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust, Huddersfield, UK
| | - Rachel Hulatt
- Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ragy Tadrous
- Academic Unit for Ageing and Stroke Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - David P Alldred
- School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- NIHR Yorkshire & Humber Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, Bradford, UK
| | - Munir Pirmohamed
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lauren Walker
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7DE, UK
| | - Rebecca Lawton
- Institute of Psychological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Department of Quality and Safety Research, Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford, UK
| | - Andrew Clegg
- Academic Unit for Ageing and Stroke Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Hilmer SN. STOPP/START version 3: looks great, fits well, but itches. Eur Geriatr Med 2023; 14:639-641. [PMID: 37421573 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-023-00828-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah N Hilmer
- Kolling Institute, Northern Sydney Local Health District and The University of Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.
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Nishtala PS, Pickering JW, Bergler U, Mangin D, Hilmer SN, Jamieson H. Post Hoc Analyses of a Randomized Controlled Trial for the Effect of Pharmacist Deprescribing Intervention on the Anticholinergic Burden in Frail Community-Dwelling Older Adults. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023:S1525-8610(23)00478-4. [PMID: 37339754 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Anticholinergic burden is detrimental to cognitive health. Multiple studies found that a high anticholinergic burden is associated with an increased risk for dementia, changes to the brain structure, function, and cognitive decline. We performed a post hoc analysis of a randomized controlled deprescribing trial. We compared the effect of the intervention on baseline anticholinergic burden across the treatment and control groups and the time of recruitment before and after a lockdown due to the COVID pandemic with subgroup analyses by baseline frailty index. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS We analyzed data from a de-prescribing trial of older adults (>65 years) previously conducted in New Zealand that was focused on reducing the Drug Burden Index (DBI). METHODS We used the anticholinergic cognitive burden (ACB) to quantify the impact of the intervention on reducing the anticholinergic burden. Participants not taking anticholinergics at the start of the trial were excluded. The primary outcome for this subgroup analysis was a change in ACB, measured with the ĝHedges statistic describing the difference in standard deviation units of this change between intervention and control. For this analysis, the trial participants were stratified into low, medium, and high frailty and timing into prior- and post-lockdown (public health measures for COVID-19). RESULTS Among the 295 participants in this analysis, the median (IQR) age was 79 (74, 85), and 67% were women. For the primary outcome ĝHedges = -0.04 (95% CI -0.26 to 0.19) with a -0.23 mean reduction in ACB in the intervention arm and -0.19 in the control arm. Before lockdown ĝHedges = -0.38 (95% CI -0.84 to 0.04) and post-lockdown ĝHedges = 0.07 (95% CI -0.19 to 0.33). The mean change in ACB for each of the frailty strata was as follows: low frailty (-0.02; 95% CI -0.65 to 0.18); medium frailty (0.05; 95% CI -0.28 to 0.38); high frailty (0.08; 95% CI -0.40 to 0.56). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The study did not provide evidence for the effect of pharmacist deprescribing intervention on reducing the anticholinergic burden. However, this post hoc analysis examined the impact of COVID on the effectiveness of the intervention, and further research in this area may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasad S Nishtala
- Centre for Therapeutic Innovation, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, United Kingdom.
| | - John W Pickering
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Ulrich Bergler
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Dee Mangin
- University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah N Hilmer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Clinical School, Kolling Institute, University of Sydney and Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, Australia
| | - Hamish Jamieson
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; Burwood Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
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12
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[Safe discontinuation of psychotropic drugs in older people? : New evidence and practical approach]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2023; 56:93-99. [PMID: 36862243 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-023-02168-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many older patients are permanently prescribed one or more psychotropic drugs for treatment of symptoms, such as behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia. They therefore contribute to the risk of polypharmacy. Recently, deprescribing studies have been published in order to clarify if inadequate medications can be safely discontinued. This mini-review summarizes the study results and derives practical recommendations for routine use. METHOD A literature search was carried out in PubMed for clinical studies on deprescribing in association with psychotropic substances. RESULTS After removal of duplications, 12 heterogeneous clinical studies were identified and reduction of psychotropic substances could be successfully achieved in 8 studies. In four of these studies psychological, behavioral and functional endpoints were reported. Criteria for successful deprescribing of sedatives were in particular motivation, information and sufficient cooperation of the patients and for antipsychotic drugs in people with dementia, the sustainable establishment of nonpharmaceutical treatment strategies. Deprescribing was not attempted in cases of a history of severe chronic mental illness and in cases of severe behavioral symptoms in dementia. Evidence for antidepressants was not sufficient to extract practical recommendations. CONCLUSION Safe deprescribing of antipsychotic drugs in patients with dementia is justified if non-pharmacological treatment options are sustainably implemented, and for sedative drugs in well-informed, highly motivated and cooperative patients.
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Wang J, Shen JY, Conwell Y, Podsiadly EJ, Caprio TV, Nathan K, Yu F, Ramsdale EE, Fick DM, Mixon AS, Simmons SF. How "age-friendly" are deprescribing interventions? A scoping review of deprescribing trials. Health Serv Res 2023; 58 Suppl 1:123-138. [PMID: 36221154 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.14083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess how age-friendly deprescribing trials are regarding intervention design and outcome assessment. Reduced use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) can be addressed by deprescribing-a systematic process of discontinuing and/or reducing the use of PIMs. The 4Ms-"Medication", "Mentation", "Mobility", and "What Matters Most" to the person-can be used to guide assessment of age-friendliness of deprescribing trials. DATA SOURCE Published literature. STUDY DESIGN Scoping review. DATA EXTRACTION METHODS The literature was identified using keywords related to deprescribing and polypharmacy in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, ProQuest, CINAHL, and Cochrane and snowballing. Study characteristics were extracted and evaluated for consideration of 4Ms. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Thirty-seven of the 564 trials identified met the review eligibility criteria. Intervention design: "Medication" was considered in the intervention design of all trials; "Mentation" was considered in eight trials; "Mobility" (n = 2) and "What Matters Most" (n = 6) were less often considered in the design of intervention. Most trials targeted providers without specifying how matters important to older adults and their families were aligned with deprescribing decisions. OUTCOME ASSESSMENT "Medication" was the most commonly assessed outcome (n = 33), followed by "Mobility" (n = 13) and "Mentation" (n = 10) outcomes, with no study examining "What Matters Most" outcomes. CONCLUSIONS "Mentation" and "Mobility", and "What Matters Most" have been considered to varying degrees in deprescribing trials, limiting the potential of deprescribing evidence to contribute to improved clinical practice in building an age-friendly health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjiao Wang
- Elaine Hubbard Center for Nursing Research on Aging, School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Jenny Y Shen
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Yeates Conwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Eric J Podsiadly
- Elaine Hubbard Center for Nursing Research on Aging, School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Thomas V Caprio
- Division of Geriatrics & Aging, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Kobi Nathan
- St. John Fisher College, Wegmans School of Pharmacy, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Fang Yu
- Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Erika E Ramsdale
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Donna M Fick
- Penn State University, Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amanda S Mixon
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sandra F Simmons
- Division of Geriatrics & Center for Quality Aging, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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14
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Reeve E, Bayliss EA, Shetterly S, Maiyani M, Gleason KS, Norton JD, Sheehan OC, Green AR, Maciejewski ML, Drace M, Sawyer J, Boyd CM. Willingness of older people living with dementia and mild cognitive impairment and their caregivers to have medications deprescribed. Age Ageing 2023; 52:afac335. [PMID: 36702513 PMCID: PMC9879708 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afac335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND people living with cognitive impairment commonly take multiple medications including potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs), which puts them at risk of medication related harms. AIMS to explore willingness to have a medication deprescribed of older people living with cognitive impairment (dementia or mild cognitive impairment) and multiple chronic conditions and assess the relationship between willingness, patient characteristics and belief about medications. METHODS cross-sectional study using results from the revised Patients' Attitudes Towards Deprescribing questionnaire (rPATDcog) collected as baseline data in the OPTIMIZE study, a pragmatic, cluster-randomised trial educating patients and clinicians about deprescribing. Eligible participants were 65+, diagnosed with dementia or mild cognitive impairment, and prescribed at least five-long-term medications. RESULTS the questionnaire was mailed to 1,409 intervention patients and 553 (39%) were returned and included in analysis. Participants had a mean age of 80.1 (SD 7.4) and 52.4% were female. About 78.5% (431/549) of participants said that they would be willing to have one of their medications stopped if their doctor said it was possible. Willingness to deprescribe was negatively associated with getting stressed when changes are made and with previously having a bad experience with stopping a medication (P < 0.001 for both). CONCLUSION most older people living with cognitive impairment are willing to deprescribe. Addressing previous bad experiences with stopping a medication and stress when changes are made to medications may be key points to discuss during deprescribing conversations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Reeve
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A Bayliss
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Susan Shetterly
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Mahesh Maiyani
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kathy S Gleason
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jonathan D Norton
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Orla C Sheehan
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, RCSI Hospitals Group, Connolly Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ariel R Green
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew L Maciejewski
- Durham Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Melanie Drace
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jennifer Sawyer
- Institute for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Cynthia M Boyd
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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15
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O'Donnell LK, Ibrahim K. Polypharmacy and deprescribing: challenging the old and embracing the new. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:734. [PMID: 36068485 PMCID: PMC9450314 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03408-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kouladjian O'Donnell
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Ageing, Kolling Institute, Royal North Shore Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, St Leonards, Australia.
| | - Kinda Ibrahim
- Academic Geriatric Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Southampton, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK. .,Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, The National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR), University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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16
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Seppala LJ, Kamkar N, van Poelgeest EP, Thomsen K, Daams JG, Ryg J, Masud T, Montero-Odasso M, Hartikainen S, Petrovic M, van der Velde N. Medication reviews and deprescribing as a single intervention in falls prevention: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Age Ageing 2022; 51:afac191. [PMID: 36153749 PMCID: PMC9509688 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afac191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND our aim was to assess the effectiveness of medication review and deprescribing interventions as a single intervention in falls prevention. METHODS DESIGN systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, PsycINFO until 28 March 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA randomised controlled trials of older participants comparing any medication review or deprescribing intervention with usual care and reporting falls as an outcome. STUDY RECORDS title/abstract and full-text screening by two reviewers. RISK OF BIAS Cochrane Collaboration revised tool. DATA SYNTHESIS results reported separately for different settings and sufficiently comparable studies meta-analysed. RESULTS forty-nine heterogeneous studies were included. COMMUNITY meta-analyses of medication reviews resulted in a risk ratio (RR) of 1.05 (95% confidence interval, 0.85-1.29, I2 = 0%, 3 studies(s)) for number of fallers, in an RR = 0.95 (0.70-1.27, I2 = 37%, 3 s) for number of injurious fallers and in a rate ratio (RaR) of 0.89 (0.69-1.14, I2 = 0%, 2 s) for injurious falls. HOSPITAL meta-analyses assessing medication reviews resulted in an RR = 0.97 (0.74-1.28, I2 = 15%, 2 s) and in an RR = 0.50 (0.07-3.50, I2 = 72% %, 2 s) for number of fallers after and during admission, respectively. LONG-TERM CARE meta-analyses investigating medication reviews or deprescribing plans resulted in an RR = 0.86 (0.72-1.02, I2 = 0%, 5 s) for number of fallers and in an RaR = 0.93 (0.64-1.35, I2 = 92%, 7 s) for number of falls. CONCLUSIONS the heterogeneity of the interventions precluded us to estimate the exact effect of medication review and deprescribing as a single intervention. For future studies, more comparability is warranted. These interventions should not be implemented as a stand-alone strategy in falls prevention but included in multimodal strategies due to the multifactorial nature of falls.PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020218231.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotta J Seppala
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nellie Kamkar
- Gait and Brain Laboratory, Lawson Research Health Institute, Parkwood Hospital, London Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London Ontario, Canada
| | - Eveline P van Poelgeest
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katja Thomsen
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Geriatric Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Joost G Daams
- Research Support, Medical Library, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jesper Ryg
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Geriatric Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- ODIN (Odense Deprescribing INitiative), Denmark
| | - Tahir Masud
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Manuel Montero-Odasso
- Gait and Brain Laboratory, Lawson Research Health Institute, Parkwood Hospital, London Ontario, Canada
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London Ontario, Canada
- Departments of Medicine (Geriatrics) and of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Mirko Petrovic
- Department of Internal Medicine and Paediatrics (Section of Geriatrics), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nathalie van der Velde
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Internal Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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17
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Trenaman SC, Kennie-Kaulbach N, d'Entremont-MacVicar E, Isenor JE, Goodine C, Jarrett P, Andrew MK. Implementation of pharmacist-led deprescribing in collaborative primary care settings. Int J Clin Pharm 2022; 44:1216-1221. [PMID: 35794285 PMCID: PMC9261167 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-022-01449-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In many jurisdictions pharmacists share prescribing responsibilities with other members of the primary care team. Responsibility for deprescribing, the healthcare professional supervised withdrawal of medications that are no longer needed, has not been assumed by a specific member of the primary care team. In this commentary we describe implementation of pharmacist-led deprescribing in collaborative primary care settings using the seven components of knowledge translation. Patient and stakeholder engagement shaped the deprescribing intervention. The intervention was implemented in three collaborative primary care clinics in two Canadian provinces. The evaluation included measures of medication appropriateness, patient satisfaction, and healthcare professional satisfaction. Pharmacist-led deprescribing in primary care was acceptable to both patients and healthcare professionals and demonstrated a reduction of medications deemed to confer more risk than benefit. Our findings support successes in pharmacist-led deprescribing. Future work is needed to understand how to successfully implement and evaluate pharmacist-led deprescribing more widely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanna C Trenaman
- Department of Medicine (Geriatrics), Dalhousie University, Veterans Memorial Building, 5955 Veterans Memorial Lane, Halifax, NS, B3H 2E1, Canada.
- Geriatric Medicine Research, Dalhousie University / Nova Scotia Health Authority, 1427-5955 Veterans' Memorial Lane, Halifax, NS, B3H 2E1, Canada.
| | - Natalie Kennie-Kaulbach
- College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, 5968 College Street, PO Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | | | - Jennifer E Isenor
- College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, 5968 College Street, PO Box 15000, Halifax, NS, B3H 4R2, Canada
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Centre for Clinical Research, 5790 University Avenue, Halifax, NS, B3H 1V7, Canada
| | - Carole Goodine
- Horizon Health Network, Doctor Everett Chalmers Hospital, 700 Priestman Street, PO Box 9000, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5N5, Canada
| | - Pamela Jarrett
- Department of Medicine (Geriatrics), Dalhousie University, Veterans Memorial Building, 5955 Veterans Memorial Lane, Halifax, NS, B3H 2E1, Canada
- Horizon Health Network, 400 University Avenue, PO Box 2100, Saint John, NB, E2L 4L2, Canada
| | - Melissa K Andrew
- Department of Medicine (Geriatrics), Dalhousie University, Veterans Memorial Building, 5955 Veterans Memorial Lane, Halifax, NS, B3H 2E1, Canada
- Geriatric Medicine Research, Dalhousie University / Nova Scotia Health Authority, 1427-5955 Veterans' Memorial Lane, Halifax, NS, B3H 2E1, Canada
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18
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How to Improve Healthcare for Patients with Multimorbidity and Polypharmacy in Primary Care: A Pragmatic Cluster-Randomized Clinical Trial of the MULTIPAP Intervention. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12050752. [PMID: 35629175 PMCID: PMC9144280 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12050752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Purpose: To investigate a complex MULTIPAP intervention that implements the Ariadne principles in a primary care population of young-elderly patients with multimorbidity and polypharmacy and to evaluate its effectiveness for improving the appropriateness of prescriptions. (2) Methods: A pragmatic cluster-randomized clinical trial was conducted involving 38 family practices in Spain. Patients aged 65–74 years with multimorbidity and polypharmacy were recruited. Family physicians (FPs) were randomly allocated to continue usual care or to provide the MULTIPAP intervention based on the Ariadne principles with two components: FP training (eMULTIPAP) and FP patient interviews. The primary outcome was the appropriateness of prescribing, measured as the between-group difference in the mean Medication Appropriateness Index (MAI) score change from the baseline to the 6-month follow-up. The secondary outcomes were quality of life (EQ-5D-5 L), patient perceptions of shared decision making (collaboRATE), use of health services, treatment adherence, and incidence of drug adverse events (all at 1 year), using multi-level regression models, with FP as a random effect. (3) Results: We recruited 117 FPs and 593 of their patients. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the between-group difference for the mean MAI score change after a 6-month follow-up was −2.42 (95% CI from −4.27 to −0.59) and, between baseline and a 12-month follow-up was −3.40 (95% CI from −5.45 to −1.34). There were no significant differences in any other secondary outcomes. (4) Conclusions: The MULTIPAP intervention improved medication appropriateness sustainably over the follow-up time. The small magnitude of the effect, however, advises caution in the interpretation of the results given the paucity of evidence for the clinical benefit of the observed change in the MAI. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02866799.
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19
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Eidam A, Roth A, Frick E, Metzner M, Lampert A, Seidling HM, Haefeli WE, Bauer JM. Development of an Electronic Tool to Assess Patient Preferences in Geriatric Polypharmacy (PolyPref). Patient Prefer Adherence 2022; 16:1733-1747. [PMID: 35910298 PMCID: PMC9329442 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s364681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Medical decision-making in older adults with multiple chronic conditions and polypharmacy should include the individual patient's treatment preferences. We developed and pilot-tested an electronic instrument (PolyPref) to elicit patient preferences in geriatric polypharmacy. PATIENTS AND METHODS PolyPref follows a two-stage direct approach to preference assessment. Stage 1 generates an individual preselection of relevant health outcomes and medication regimen characteristics, followed by stage 2, in which their importance is assessed using the Q-sort methodology. The feasibility of the instrument was tested in adults aged ≥70 years with ≥2 chronic conditions and regular intake of ≥5 medicines. After the assessment with PolyPref, the patients rated the tool with regard to its comprehensibility and usability and assessed the accuracy of the personal result. Evaluators rated the patients' understanding of the task. RESULTS Eighteen short-term health outcomes, 3 long-term health outcomes, and 8 medication regimen characteristics were included in the instrument. The final population for the pilot study comprised 15 inpatients at a clinic for geriatric rehabilitation with a mean age of 80.6 (± 6.0) years, a median score of 28 (range 25-30) points on the Mini-Mental State Examination, and a mean of 11.6 (± 3.6) regularly taken medicines. Feedback by the patients and the evaluators revealed ratings in favor of understanding and comprehensibility of 86.7% to 100%. The majority of the patients stated that their final result summarized the most important aspects of their pharmacotherapy (93.3%) and that its ranking order reflected their personal opinion (100%). Preference assessment took an average of 35 (± 8.5) min, with the instrument being handled by the evaluator in 14 of the 15 participants. CONCLUSION Preference assessment with PolyPref was feasible in older adults with multiple chronic conditions and polypharmacy, offering a new strategy for the standardized evaluation of patient priorities in geriatric pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Eidam
- Center for Geriatric Medicine, Heidelberg University, AGAPLESION Bethanien Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence: Annette Eidam, Center for Geriatric Medicine, Heidelberg University, AGAPLESION Bethanien Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany, Tel +49 6221-319-1795, Fax +49 6221-319-1505, Email
| | - Anja Roth
- Center for Geriatric Medicine, Heidelberg University, AGAPLESION Bethanien Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eduard Frick
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Metzner
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anette Lampert
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Cooperation Unit Clinical Pharmacy, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hanna M Seidling
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Cooperation Unit Clinical Pharmacy, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Walter E Haefeli
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Cooperation Unit Clinical Pharmacy, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen M Bauer
- Center for Geriatric Medicine, Heidelberg University, AGAPLESION Bethanien Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Network Aging Research (NAR), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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20
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Hilmer SN. Bridging geriatric medicine, clinical pharmacology and ageing biology to understand and improve outcomes of medicines in old age and frailty. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 71:101457. [PMID: 34481922 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah N Hilmer
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney and Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia.
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21
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Individualized versus Standardized Risk Assessment in Patients at High Risk for Adverse Drug Reactions (The IDrug Randomized Controlled Trial)-Never Change a Running System? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14101056. [PMID: 34681280 PMCID: PMC8538435 DOI: 10.3390/ph14101056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare effects of an individualized with a standardized risk assessment for adverse drug reactions to improve drug treatment with antithrombotic drugs in older adults. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in general practitioner (GP) offices. Patients aged 60 years and older, multi-morbid, taking antithrombotic drugs and at least one additional drug continuously were randomized to individualized and standardized risk assessment groups. Patients were followed up for nine months. A composite endpoint defined as at least one bleeding, thromboembolic event or death reported via a trigger list was used. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. In total, N = 340 patients were enrolled from 43 GP offices. Patients in the individualized risk assessment group met the composite endpoint more often than in the standardized group (OR 1.63 [95%CI 1.02-2.63]) with multiple adjustments. The OR was higher in patients on phenprocoumon treatment (OR 1.99 [95%CI 1.05-3.76]), and not significant on DOAC treatment (OR 1.52 [95%CI 0.63-3.69]). Pharmacogenenetic variants of CYP2C9, 2C19 and VKORC1 were not observed to be associated with the composite endpoint. The results of this study may indicate that the time point for implementing individualized risk assessments is of importance.
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Liau SJ, Bell JS. Frailty Status and Cognitive Function Should Guide Prescribing in Long-term Care Facilities. Sr Care Pharm 2021; 36:469-473. [PMID: 34593087 DOI: 10.4140/tcp.n.2021.469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Frailty, dementia and complex multimorbidity are highly prevalent among residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs). Prescribing for residents of LTCFs is often informed by disease-specific clinical practice guidelines based on research conducted among younger and more robust adults. However, frailty and cognitive impairment may modify medication benefits and risks. Residents with frailty and advanced dementia may be at increased susceptibility to adverse drug events (ADEs) and often have a lower likelihood of achieving long-term therapeutic benefit from chronic preventative medications. For this reason, there is a strong rationale for deprescribing, particularlyamong residents with high medication burdens, swallowing difficulties or limited dexterity. Conversely, frailty and dementia have also been associated with under-prescribing of clinically indicated medications. Unnecessarily withholding treatment based on assumed risk may deprive vulnerable population groups from receiving evidence-based care. There is a need for specific evidence regarding medication benefits and risks in LTCF residents with frailty and dementia. Observational studies conducted using routinely collected health data may complement evidence from randomized controlled trials that often exclude people living with dementia, frailty and in LTCFs. Balancing over- and under-prescribing requires consideration of each resident's frailty and cognitive status, therapeutic goals, time-to-benefit, potential ADEs, and individual values or preferences. Incorporating frailty screening into medication review may also provide better alignment of medication regimens to changing goals of care. Timely identification of frail residents as part of treatment decision-making may assist with targeting interventions to minimize and monitor for ADEs. Shifting away from rigid application of conventional disease-specific clinical practice guidelines may provide an individualized and more holistic assessment of medication benefits and risks in the LTCF setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin J Liau
- Research Pharmacist, Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Centre of Research Excellence in Frailty and Healthy Ageing, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - J Simon Bell
- Professor and Director, Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Centre of Research Excellence in Frailty and Healthy Ageing, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Kouladjian O'Donnell L, Reeve E, Hilmer SN. Development, validation and evaluation of the Goal-directed Medication review Electronic Decision Support System (G-MEDSS)©. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 18:3174-3183. [PMID: 34583897 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES 1) To understand and investigate the experiences of accredited clinical pharmacists (ACP) using computerised clinical decision support systems (CCDSS) during medication reviews for older people, including those living with dementia; 2) To design, develop, validate, and evaluate a CCDSS that incorporates pharmacological and other deprescribing tools to aid person-centred management of high-risk medications in older adults living with and without dementia. METHODS This study consisted of three phases and was designed on scenario-based methodology: a) the development phase, which included an exploratory survey and prototype building; b) the validation phase, which included qualitative data collection and usability testing with ACPs, general practitioners (GPs) and carers for people living with dementia; and c) the evaluation phase, using mixed-methods analyses. RESULTS The exploratory survey found that ACPs required a flexible, and reliable CCDSS to support them with clinical decisions regarding high-risk medication use in older adults. The Goal-directed Medication review Electronic Decision Support System (G-MEDSS)© was developed and validated using quantitative and qualitative feedback received from ACPs, GPs and carers for people with dementia. The mean (SD) System Usability Scale score was 69.0 (12.9), which indicated fair-good usability. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Involving end-users in the design process refined and improved the design of G-MEDSS, allowing for a person-centred and goal-directed delivery of pharmaceutical care. G-MEDSS allows healthcare practitioners conducting medication reviews for older adults living with and without dementia to tailor pharmaceutical care to meet their goals and preferences. Future studies may explore integration of G-MEDSS with prescribing or dispensing software.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kouladjian O'Donnell
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Aged Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Emily Reeve
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Aged Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Geriatric Medicine Research, Faculty of Medicine, and College of Pharmacy, Dalhousie University and Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Canada; Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, UniSA: Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Sarah N Hilmer
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Aged Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Kolling Institute, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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Weir KR, Ailabouni NJ, Schneider CR, Hilmer SN, Reeve E. Consumer attitudes towards deprescribing: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2021; 77:1020-1034. [PMID: 34390339 PMCID: PMC9071395 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glab222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Harmful and/or unnecessary medication use in older adults is common. This indicates deprescribing (supervised withdrawal of inappropriate medicines) is not happening as often as it should. This study aimed to synthesize the results of the Patients’ Attitudes Towards Deprescribing (PATD) questionnaire (and revised versions). Methods Databases were searched from January 2013 to March 2020. Google Scholar was used for citation searching of the development and validation manuscripts to identify original research using the validated PATD, revised PATD (older adult and caregiver versions), and the version for people with cognitive impairment (rPATDcog). Two authors extracted data independently. A meta-analysis of proportions (random-effects model) was conducted with subgroup meta-analyses for setting and population. The primary outcome was the question: “If my doctor said it was possible, I would be willing to stop one or more of my medicines.” Secondary outcomes were associations between participant characteristics and primary outcome and other (r)PATD results. Results We included 46 articles describing 40 studies (n = 10,816 participants). The meta-analysis found the proportion of participants who agreed or strongly agreed with this statement was 84% (95% CI 81%–88%) and 80% (95% CI 74%–86%) in patients and caregivers, respectively, with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 95% and 77%). Conclusion Consumers reported willingness to have a medication deprescribed although results should be interpreted with caution due to heterogeneity. The findings from this study moves toward understanding attitudes toward deprescribing, which could increase the discussion and uptake of deprescribing recommendations in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie Rebecca Weir
- University of South Australia, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre (QUMPRC), Adelaide, SA, Australia.,University of Sydney, Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nagham J Ailabouni
- University of South Australia, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre (QUMPRC), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Carl R Schneider
- University of Sydney, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sarah N Hilmer
- University of Sydney, Kolling Institute of Medical Research and Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Aged Care, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Emily Reeve
- University of South Australia, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre (QUMPRC), Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Dalhousie University and Nova Scotia Health Authority, Geriatric Medicine Research, Faculty of Medicine, and College of Pharmacy, Halifax, Canada
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Barry HE, Hughes CM. An Update on Medication Use in Older Adults: a Narrative Review. CURR EPIDEMIOL REP 2021; 8:108-115. [PMID: 34306966 PMCID: PMC8294219 DOI: 10.1007/s40471-021-00274-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The global phenomenon of population aging is impacting the health and care needs of society. The use of medications by older adults is acknowledged to be the most common form of medical intervention for many acute and chronic conditions and prescribing in this population continues to increase. In this narrative review, we summarise the age-related factors that should be considered when prescribing for older adults, address some of the perennial challenges related to medicine use in older people, and highlight important emerging research in this area. Recent Findings A range of age-related factors should be considered when prescribing for older adults. However, the evidence base still lacks data pertaining to older adults due to their continued under-representation in clinical trials. Multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and inappropriate prescribing continue to remain prevalent among older adults, although recent research has been focused on the development and evaluation of complex interventions to address these challenges. Summary Further high-quality studies of interventions to improve and support medication use in older adults are needed, ensuring that older adults are well represented in such trials and consideration is given to the measurement of patient- and provider-focused outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather E Barry
- Primary Care Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL UK
| | - Carmel M Hughes
- Primary Care Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL UK
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Jungo KT, Meier R, Valeri F, Schwab N, Schneider C, Reeve E, Spruit M, Schwenkglenks M, Rodondi N, Streit S. Baseline characteristics and comparability of older multimorbid patients with polypharmacy and general practitioners participating in a randomized controlled primary care trial. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:123. [PMID: 34157981 PMCID: PMC8220761 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01488-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Recruiting general practitioners (GPs) and their multimorbid older patients for trials is challenging for multiple reasons (e.g., high workload, limited mobility). The comparability of study participants is important for interpreting study findings. This manuscript describes the baseline characteristics of GPs and patients participating in the ‘Optimizing PharmacoTherapy in older multimorbid adults In primary CAre’ (OPTICA) trial, a study of optimization of pharmacotherapy for multimorbid older adults. The overall aim of this study was to determine if the GPs and patients participating in the OPTICA trial are comparable to the real-world population in Swiss primary care. Design Analysis of baseline data from GPs and patients in the OPTICA trial and a reference cohort from the FIRE (‘Family medicine ICPC Research using Electronic medical records’) project. Setting Primary care, Switzerland. Participants Three hundred twenty-three multimorbid (≥ 3 chronic conditions) patients with polypharmacy (≥ 5 regular medications) aged ≥ 65 years and 43 GPs recruited for the OPTICA trial were compared to 22,907 older multimorbid patients with polypharmacy and 227 GPs from the FIRE database. Methods We compared the characteristics of GPs and patients participating in the OPTICA trial with other GPs and other older multimorbid adults with polypharmacy in the FIRE database. We described the baseline willingness to have medications deprescribed of the patients participating in the OPTICA trial using the revised Patients’ Attitudes Towards Deprescribing (rPATD) questionnaire. Results The GPs in the FIRE project and OPTICA were similar in terms of sociodemographic characteristics and their work as a GP (e.g. aged in their fifties, ≥ 10 years of experience, ≥ 60% are self-employed, ≥ 80% work in a group practice). The median age of patients in the OPTICA trial was 77 years and 45% of trial participants were women. Patients participating in the OPTICA trial and patients in the FIRE database were comparable in terms of age, certain clinical characteristics (e.g. systolic blood pressure, body mass index) and health services use (e.g. selected lab and vital data measurements). More than 80% of older multimorbid patients reported to be willing to stop ≥ 1 of their medications if their doctor said that this would be possible. Conclusion The characteristics of patients and GPs recruited into the OPTICA trial are relatively comparable to characteristics of a real-world Swiss population, which indicates that recruiting a generalizable patient sample is possible in the primary care setting. Multimorbid patients in the OPTICA trial reported a high willingness to have medications deprescribed. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03724539), KOFAM (Swiss national portal) (SNCTP000003060), Universal Trial Number (U1111-1226-8013) Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-021-01488-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Tabea Jungo
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Graduate School for Health Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rahel Meier
- Institute of Primary Care, University and University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fabio Valeri
- Institute of Primary Care, University and University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Schwab
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Claudio Schneider
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Emily Reeve
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Geriatric Medicine Research, Faculty of Medicine and College of Pharmacy, Dalhousie University and Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Marco Spruit
- Department of Information and Computing Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Public Health & Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Matthias Schwenkglenks
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Medicine (ECPM), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Rodondi
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of General Internal Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sven Streit
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
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