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Tsang JY, Sperrin M, Blakeman T, Payne RA, Ashcroft DM. Protocol for the development and validation of a Polypharmacy Assessment Score. Diagn Progn Res 2024; 8:10. [PMID: 39010248 PMCID: PMC11251249 DOI: 10.1186/s41512-024-00171-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of people are using multiple medications each day, named polypharmacy. This is driven by an ageing population, increasing multimorbidity, and single disease-focussed guidelines. Medications carry obvious benefits, yet polypharmacy is also linked to adverse consequences including adverse drug events, drug-drug and drug-disease interactions, poor patient experience and wasted resources. Problematic polypharmacy is 'the prescribing of multiple medicines inappropriately, or where the intended benefits are not realised'. Identifying people with problematic polypharmacy is complex, as multiple medicines can be suitable for people with several chronic conditions requiring more treatment. Hence, polypharmacy is often potentially problematic, rather than always inappropriate, dependent on clinical context and individual benefit vs risk. There is a need to improve how we identify and evaluate these patients by extending beyond simple counts of medicines to include individual factors and long-term conditions. AIM To produce a Polypharmacy Assessment Score to identify a population with unusual levels of prescribing who may be at risk of potentially problematic polypharmacy. METHODS Analyses will be performed in three parts: 1. A prediction model will be constructed using observed medications count as the dependent variable, with age, gender and long-term conditions as independent variables. A 'Polypharmacy Assessment Score' will then be constructed through calculating the differences between the observed and expected count of prescribed medications, thereby highlighting people that have unexpected levels of prescribing. Parts 2 and 3 will examine different aspects of validity of the Polypharmacy Assessment Score: 2. To assess 'construct validity', cross-sectional analyses will evaluate high-risk prescribing within populations defined by a range of Polypharmacy Assessment Scores, using both explicit (STOPP/START criteria) and implicit (Medication Appropriateness Index) measures of inappropriate prescribing. 3. To assess 'predictive validity', a retrospective cohort study will explore differences in clinical outcomes (adverse drug reactions, unplanned hospitalisation and all-cause mortality) between differing scores. DISCUSSION Developing a cross-cutting measure of polypharmacy may allow healthcare professionals to prioritise and risk stratify patients with polypharmacy using unusual levels of prescribing. This would be an improvement from current approaches of either using simple cutoffs or narrow prescribing criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Yin Tsang
- Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GMPSRC), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
- Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Matthew Sperrin
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GMPSRC), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Thomas Blakeman
- Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GMPSRC), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rupert A Payne
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Darren M Ashcroft
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GMPSRC), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Tsang JY, Sperrin M, Blakeman T, Payne RA, Ashcroft D. Defining, identifying and addressing problematic polypharmacy within multimorbidity in primary care: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e081698. [PMID: 38803265 PMCID: PMC11129052 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-081698] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polypharmacy and multimorbidity pose escalating challenges. Despite numerous attempts, interventions have yet to show consistent improvements in health outcomes. A key factor may be varied approaches to targeting patients for intervention. OBJECTIVES To explore how patients are targeted for intervention by examining the literature with respect to: understanding how polypharmacy is defined; identifying problematic polypharmacy in practice; and addressing problematic polypharmacy through interventions. DESIGN We performed a scoping review as defined by the Joanna Briggs Institute. SETTING The focus was on primary care settings. DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and Cochrane along with ClinicalTrials.gov, Science.gov and WorldCat.org were searched from January 2004 to February 2024. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included all articles that had a focus on problematic polypharmacy in multimorbidity and primary care, incorporating multiple types of evidence, such as reviews, quantitative trials, qualitative studies and policy documents. Articles focussing on a single index disease or not written in English were excluded. EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS We performed a narrative synthesis, comparing themes and findings across the collective evidence to draw contextualised insights and conclusions. RESULTS In total, 157 articles were included. Case-finding methods often rely on basic medication counts (often five or more) without considering medical history or whether individual medications are clinically appropriate. Other approaches highlight specific drug indicators and interactions as potentially inappropriate prescribing, failing to capture a proportion of patients not fitting criteria. Different potentially inappropriate prescribing criteria also show significant inconsistencies in determining the appropriateness of medications, often neglecting to consider multimorbidity and underprescribing. This may hinder the identification of the precise population requiring intervention. CONCLUSIONS Improved strategies are needed to target patients with polypharmacy, which should consider patient perspectives, individual factors and clinical appropriateness. The development of a cross-cutting measure of problematic polypharmacy that consistently incorporates adjustment for multimorbidity may be a valuable next step to address frequent confounding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Yin Tsang
- Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester Division of Population Health Health Services Research and Primary Care, Manchester, UK
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GMPSRC), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Matthew Sperrin
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GMPSRC), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Thomas Blakeman
- Centre for Primary Care and Health Services Research, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester Division of Population Health Health Services Research and Primary Care, Manchester, UK
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GMPSRC), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rupert A Payne
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Darren Ashcroft
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration (GMPSRC), Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre (MAHSC), The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Rodríguez Castillo B, Cendrós M, Ciudad CJ, Sabater A. Comprehensive Analysis of Drug Utilization Patterns, Gender Disparities, Lifestyle Influences, and Genetic Factors: Insights from Elderly Cohort Using g-Nomic ® Software. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:565. [PMID: 38794134 PMCID: PMC11123674 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050565] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Polypharmacy is a global healthcare concern, especially among the elderly, leading to drug interactions and adverse reactions, which are significant causes of death in developed nations. However, the integration of pharmacogenetics can help mitigate these risks. In this study, the data from 483 patients, primarily elderly and polymedicated, were analyzed using Eugenomic®'s personalized prescription software, g-Nomic®. The most prescribed drug classes included antihypertensives, platelet aggregation inhibitors, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and gastroprotective medications. Drug-lifestyle interactions primarily involved inhibitions but also included inductions. Interactions were analyzed considering gender. Significant genetic variants identified in the study encompassed ABCB1, SLCO1B1, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, CYP3A4, ABCG2, NAT2, SLC22A1, and G6PD. To prevent adverse reactions and enhance medication effectiveness, it is strongly recommended to consider pharmacogenetics testing. This approach shows great promise in optimizing medication regimens and ultimately improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Rodríguez Castillo
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universidad de Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain (C.J.C.)
| | - Marc Cendrós
- Technical Department, Eugenomic, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos J. Ciudad
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universidad de Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain (C.J.C.)
| | - Ana Sabater
- Technical Department, Eugenomic, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
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Phillips T, Harris S, Aiyegbusi OL, Lucas B, Benavente M, Roderick PJ, Cockwell P, Kalra PA, Wheeler DC, Taal MW, Fraser SDS. Potentially modifiable factors associated with health-related quality of life among people with chronic kidney disease: baseline findings from the National Unified Renal Translational Research Enterprise CKD (NURTuRE-CKD) cohort. Clin Kidney J 2024; 17:sfae010. [PMID: 38313684 PMCID: PMC10836575 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfae010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Many non-modifiable factors are associated with poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL) experienced by people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We hypothesize that potentially modifiable factors for poor HRQoL can be identified among CKD patients, providing potential targets for intervention. Method The National Unified Renal Translational Research Enterprise Chronic Kidney Disease (NURTuRE-CKD) cohort study recruited 2996 participants from nephrology centres with all stages of non-dialysis-dependent CKD. Baseline data collection for sociodemographic, anthropometric, biochemical and clinical information, including Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale renal, Hospital Anxiety and Depression score (HADS) and the 5-level EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D-5L) as HRQoL measure, took place between 2017 and 2019. EQ-5D-5L dimensions (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, anxiety/depression) were mapped to an EQ-5D-3L value set to derive index value. Multivariable mixed effects regression models, adjusted for known factors affecting HRQoL with recruitment region as a random effect, were fit to assess potentially modifiable factors associated with index value (linear) and within each dimension (logistic). Results Among the 2958/2996 (98.7%) participants with complete EQ-5D data, 2201 (74.4%) reported problems in at least one EQ-5D-5L dimension. Multivariable linear regression identified independent associations between poorer HRQoL (EQ-5D-3L index value) and obesity (body mass index ≥30.0 kg/m2, β -0.037, 95% CI -0.058 to -0.016, P = .001), HADS depression score ≥8 (β -0.159, -0.182 to -0.137, P < .001), anxiety score ≥8 (β -0.090, -0.110 to -0.069, P < .001), taking ≥10 medications (β -0.065, -0.085 to -0.046, P < .001), sarcopenia (β -0.062, -0.080 to -0.043, P < .001) haemoglobin <100 g/L (β -0.047, -0.085 to -0.010, P = .012) and pain (β -0.134, -0.152 to -0.117, P < .001). Smoking and prescription of prednisolone independently associated with problems in self-care and usual activities respectively. Renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (RASi) prescription associated with fewer problems with mobility and usual activities. Conclusion Potentially modifiable factors including obesity, pain, depression, anxiety, anaemia, polypharmacy, smoking, steroid use and sarcopenia associated with poorer HRQoL in this cohort, whilst RASi use was associated with better HRQoL in two dimensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Phillips
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Scott Harris
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Olalekan Lee Aiyegbusi
- Centre for Patient-Reported Outcome Research (CPROR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Bethany Lucas
- Centre for Kidney Research and Innovation, Academic Unit for Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Melissa Benavente
- Centre for Kidney Research and Innovation, Academic Unit for Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Paul J Roderick
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Paul Cockwell
- Centre for Patient-Reported Outcome Research (CPROR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Renal Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Philip A Kalra
- Department of Renal Medicine, Salford Royal Hospital, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - David C Wheeler
- Department of Renal Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Maarten W Taal
- Centre for Kidney Research and Innovation, Academic Unit for Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Derby Hospital, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Simon D S Fraser
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Alwidyan T, McCorry NK, Black C, Coulter R, Forbes J, Parsons C. Prescribing and deprescribing in older people with life-limiting illnesses receiving hospice care at the end of life: A longitudinal, retrospective cohort study. Palliat Med 2024; 38:121-130. [PMID: 38032069 PMCID: PMC10798021 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231209024] [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: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although prescribing and deprescribing practices in older people have been the subject of much research generally, there are limited data in older people at the end of life. This highlights the need for research to determine prescribing and deprescribing patterns, as a first step to facilitate guideline development for medicines optimisation in this vulnerable population. AIMS To examine prescribing and deprescribing patterns in older people at the end of life and to determine the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medication use. DESIGN A longitudinal, retrospective cohort study where medical records of eligible participants were reviewed, and data extracted. Medication appropriateness was assessed using two sets of consensus-based criteria; the STOPPFrail criteria and criteria developed by Morin et al. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Decedents aged 65 years and older admitted continuously for at least 14 days before death to three inpatient hospice units across Northern Ireland, who died between 1st January and 31st December 2018, and who had a known diagnosis, known cause of death and prescription data. Unexpected/sudden deaths were excluded. RESULTS Polypharmacy was reported to be continued until death in 96.2% of 106 decedents (mean age of 75.6 years). Most patients received at least one potentially inappropriate medication at the end of life according to the STOPPFrail and the criteria developed by Morin et al. (57.5 and 69.8% respectively). Limited prevalence of proactive deprescribing interventions was observed. CONCLUSIONS In the absence of systematic rationalisation of drug treatments, a substantial proportion of older patients continued to receive potentially inappropriate medication until death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahani Alwidyan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Noleen K McCorry
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | | | | | - June Forbes
- Northern Ireland Hospice, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Carole Parsons
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Barrio-Cortes J, Benito-Sánchez B, Villimar-Rodriguez AI, Rujas M, Arroyo-Gallego P, Carlson J, Merino-Barbancho B, Roca-Umbert A, Castillo-Sanz A, Lupiáñez-Villanueva F, Fico G, Gómez-Gascón T. Differences in healthcare service utilization in patients with polypharmacy according to their risk level by adjusted morbidity groups: a population-based cross-sectional study. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:161. [PMID: 38017572 PMCID: PMC10683272 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00665-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with polypharmacy suffer from complex medical conditions involving a large healthcare burden. This study aimed to describe the characteristics and utilization of primary care (PC) and hospital care (HC) and factors associated in chronic patients with polypharmacy, stratifying by adjusted morbidity groups (AMG) risk level, sex and age, and comparing with non-polypharmacy. METHODS Cross-sectional study conducted in a Spanish basic healthcare area. Studied patients were those over 18 years with chronic diseases identified by the AMG tool from Madrid electronic clinical record, which was the data source. Sociodemographic, sociofunctional, clinical and healthcare utilization variables were described and compared by risk level, sex, age and having or not polypharmacy. Factors associated with healthcare utilization in polypharmacy patients were determined by a negative binomial regression model. RESULTS In the area studied, 61.3% patients had chronic diseases, of which 16.9% had polypharmacy vs. 83.1% without polypharmacy. Patients with polypharmacy (vs. non-polypharmacy) mean age was 82.7 (vs. 52.7), 68.9% (vs. 60.7%) were women, and 22.0% (vs. 1.2%) high risk. Their average number of chronic diseases was 4.8 (vs. 2.2), and 95.6% (vs. 56.9%) had multimorbidity. Their mean number of annual healthcare contacts was 30.3 (vs. 10.5), 25.9 (vs. 8.8) with PC and 4.4 (vs. 1.7) with HC. Factors associated with a greater PC utilization in patients with polypharmacy were elevated complexity, high risk level and dysrhythmia. Variables associated with a higher HC utilization were also increased complexity and high risk, in addition to male sex, being in palliative care, having a primary caregiver, suffering from neoplasia (specifically lymphoma or leukaemia) and arthritis, whereas older age and immobilization were negatively associated. CONCLUSIONS Polypharmacy population compared to non-polypharmacy was characterized by a more advanced age, predominance of women, high-risk, complexity, numerous comorbidities, dependency and remarkable healthcare utilization. These findings could help healthcare policy makers to optimize the distribution of resources and professionals within PC and HC systems, aiming for the improvement of polypharmacy management and rational use of medicines while reducing costs attributed to healthcare utilization by these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Barrio-Cortes
- Foundation for Biosanitary Research and Innovation in Primary Care (FIIBAP), Ave. Reina Victoria, 21, 6Th Floor, 28003, Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Health, Camilo José Cela University, Madrid, Spain
- Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Prevention and Health Promotion, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Benito-Sánchez
- Foundation for Biosanitary Research and Innovation in Primary Care (FIIBAP), Ave. Reina Victoria, 21, 6Th Floor, 28003, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Miguel Rujas
- Technical University of Madrid (UPM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tomás Gómez-Gascón
- Foundation for Biosanitary Research and Innovation in Primary Care (FIIBAP), Ave. Reina Victoria, 21, 6Th Floor, 28003, Madrid, Spain
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Prevention and Health Promotion, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
- Research Institute Hospital, 12 de Octubre (imas12), Primary Care Management, Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Martín-Díaz M, Pino-Merlo G, Bueno-Cabanillas A, Khan KS. [Longitudinality in Primary Care and Polypharmacy. A Systematic Review]. Semergen 2023; 49:101994. [PMID: 37276757 DOI: 10.1016/j.semerg.2023.101994] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to collect, evaluate and interpret the available evidence on the relationship between continuity in primary care (i.e., longitudinality), and the prevalence of polypharmacy and its associated problems. Following the PRISMA reporting statement, we carried out a systematic review of the literature searching PubMed and Scopus databases. The screening of titles and summaries and the review of references carried out independently by two authors detected 16 works of potential interest, of which 4 were discarded after the independent review of all the originals because they did not meet inclusion criteria. The 12 papers selected studied the relationship between Longitudinality, measured with various quantitative indices, and the rate of polypharmacy or various associated problems, such as duplicate drugs, inadequate prescriptions or drug interactions. They all showed a significant relationship, often strong (RR>2 or<0.5), between longitudinality indicators and the various dependent variables. Although our knowledge could be improved by prospective studies that more directly evaluate longitudinality and its impact on problems due to excess medication, with the existing evidence, we can affirm that the protection and promotion of continuity in primary care can be a key element for the control of polypharmacy and associated problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Martín-Díaz
- Cirugía General y del Aparato Digestivo, Hospital General Básico Santa Ana de Motril, Área de Gestión Sanitaria Sur de Granada, Motril, Granada, España.
| | - G Pino-Merlo
- Unidad de Calidad y Seguridad del Paciente, Área de Gestión Sanitaria Sur de Granada, Granada, España
| | - A Bueno-Cabanillas
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de Granada, Granada, España; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), España; Instituto de Investigación BioSanitaria de Granada (IBS-Granada), Granada, España
| | - K S Khan
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de Granada, Granada, España; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), España
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Murali KP, Merriman JD, Yu G, Vorderstrasse A, Kelley AS, Brody AA. Complex Care Needs at the End of Life for Seriously Ill Adults With Multiple Chronic Conditions. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2023; 25:146-155. [PMID: 37040386 PMCID: PMC10175220 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000946] [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] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the complex care needs of seriously ill adults with multiple chronic conditions with and without cancer is critical for the delivery of high-quality serious illness and palliative care at the end of life. The objective of this secondary data analysis of a multisite randomized clinical trial in palliative care was to elucidate the clinical profile and complex care needs of seriously ill adults with multiple chronic conditions and to highlight key differences among those with and without cancer at the end of life. Of the 213 (74.2%) older adults who met criteria for multiple chronic conditions (eg, 2 or more chronic conditions requiring regular care with limitations of daily living), 49% had a diagnosis of cancer. Hospice enrollment was operationalized as an indicator for severity of illness and allowed for the capture of complex care needs of those deemed to be nearing the end of life. Individuals with cancer had complex symptomatology with a higher prevalence of nausea, drowsiness, and poor appetite and end of life and lower hospice enrollment. Individuals with multiple chronic conditions without cancer had lower functional status, greater number of medications, and higher hospice enrollment. The care of seriously ill older adults with multiple chronic conditions requires tailored approaches to improve outcomes and quality of care across health care settings, particularly at the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gary Yu
- New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing
| | | | - Amy S. Kelley
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine
| | - Abraham A. Brody
- New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine
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9
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Tse N, Parks RM, Holmes HM, Cheung KL. The Association Between Medication Use in Older Women with Early-Stage Operable Primary Breast Cancer and Decision Regarding Primary Treatment. Oncologist 2023; 28:e128-e135. [PMID: 36718086 PMCID: PMC10020815 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyac278] [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: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polypharmacy is one factor contributing to increased mortality, hospitalization, and adverse drug reactions in older adults. The aim of this study was to measure the prevalence of polypharmacy in a cohort of older women with early-stage operable primary breast cancer and the relationship of polypharmacy to primary treatment decision and functional status. METHODS A total of 139 patients with a new diagnosis of early-stage operable primary breast cancer proven histologically were recruited as part of a prospective study. The average age was 77 years. Assessment using a cancer-specific Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) tool was conducted within 6 weeks of diagnosis of breast cancer. Association was determined between number of medications and treatment decision and physical status as measured by the CGA outcomes. Additional analysis was performed to determine the associations above with polypharmacy defined by ≥5 daily medications, and if cardiovascular-related diseases have a role in the treatment decision. RESULTS Polypharmacy was present in 48% of patients (n = 139). CGA determined that polypharmacy was associated with greater comorbidity (P < .001), reduced physical status rated by physicians (P = .009) and patients (P = .019), and reduced ability to perform activities of instrumental ADLs (P = .008). Similar findings were present in the analysis of cardiovascular-related diseases. CONCLUSIONS This work suggests that patients with polypharmacy are more likely to be frail. The number of medications could help us screen patients who should go on to receive full CGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Tse
- University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ruth M Parks
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Holly M Holmes
- Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kwok-Leung Cheung
- Corresponding author: Kwok-Leung Cheung, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Uttoxeter Road, Derby, DE22 3DT, UK. Telephone: +44(0)1332 724881;
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10
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Disentangling concepts of inappropriate polypharmacy in old age: a scoping review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:245. [PMID: 36739368 PMCID: PMC9899389 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15013-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polypharmacy is a common concern, especially in the older population. In some countries more that 50% of all individuals over 60 receive five or more drugs, most often due to multimorbidity and increased longevity. However, polypharmacy is associated with multiple adverse events, and more medication may not always be the answer. The terms "appropriate" and "inappropriate" are often used to distinguish between "much" and "too much" medications in relation to polypharmacy in research and practice, but no explicit definition exists to describe what these terms encompass. The aim of this review is to unfold the different understandings of and perspectives on (in)appropriate polypharmacy and suggest a framework for further research and practice. METHOD A scoping review was conducted using the framework of Arksey and O'Malley and Levac et al. Pubmed, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane database, Scopus and Web of Science were searched for references in English, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish using the search string "Polypharmacy" AND "Appropriate" OR "Inappropriate". Data was extracted on author information, aims and objectives, methodology, study population and setting, country of origin, main findings and implications, and all text including the words "appropriate," "inappropriate," and "polypharmacy." Qualitative meaning condensation analysis was used and data charted using descriptive and thematic analysis. RESULTS Of 3982 references, a total of 92 references were included in the review. Most references were from 2016-2021, from fields related to medicine or pharmacy, and occurred within primary and secondary healthcare settings. Based on the qualitative analysis, a framework were assembled consisting of Context, three domains (Standardization, Practices and Values & Concerns) and Patient Perspective. CONCLUSION Inappropriate polypharmacy is a concept loaded by its heterogeneity and the usefulness of a single definition is doubtful. Instead, the framework suggested in this article representing different dimensions of inappropriate polypharmacy may serve as an initial strategy for focusing research and practice on polypharmacy in old age.
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Taghy N, Ramel V, Rivadeneyra A, Carrouel F, Cambon L, Dussart C. Exploring the Determinants of Polypharmacy Prescribing and Dispensing Behaviors in Primary Care for the Elderly-Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1389. [PMID: 36674148 PMCID: PMC9859068 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Polypharmacy is particularly prevalent in the elderly. The interest in this issue is growing, and many interventions exist to improve the appropriate use of polypharmacy for older people. However, evidence of their effectiveness is still limited. Thus, the aim of this study, based on a qualitative approach, was to identify the key elements perceived to influence the prescribing and dispensing of appropriate polypharmacy to older people in primary care. Semistructured interviews were conducted with general practitioners and community pharmacists practicing in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine (France). Pre-existing topic guides based on the 12 TDF domains have been adapted and used. Data were analyzed using the framework method and content analysis. A focus group of healthcare professionals was conducted, and behavior change techniques (BCTs) were used to select the intervention components. Seventeen interviews were convened. A wide range of determinants were identified as barriers and/or facilitators. Nine domains were selected as key domains to target for intervention. Five intervention components (behavior change techniques-BCTs) to include in an intervention were finally selected. The results of this study will serve as a starting point for the design of a theory-based intervention targeting healthcare professionals to improve appropriate prescribing and dispensing of polypharmacy for older people in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najwa Taghy
- Laboratory “Health, Systemic, Process” (P2S), UR4129, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Viviane Ramel
- U1219 Inserm Center, Bordeaux Population Health, University of Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Ana Rivadeneyra
- U1219 Inserm Center, Bordeaux Population Health, University of Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
- ISPED, Bordeaux Population Health, University of Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Florence Carrouel
- Laboratory “Health, Systemic, Process” (P2S), UR4129, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Linda Cambon
- U1219 Inserm Center, Bordeaux Population Health, University of Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
- ISPED, Bordeaux Population Health, University of Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
- CHU Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Claude Dussart
- Laboratory “Health, Systemic, Process” (P2S), UR4129, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
- Central Pharmacy, Hospices Civiles de Lyon, 69002 Lyon, France
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12
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Wernli U, Hischier D, Meier CR, Jean-Petit-Matile S, Panchaud A, Kobleder A, Meyer-Massetti C. Prescription Trends in Hospice Care: A Longitudinal Retrospective and Descriptive Medication Analysis. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2022:10499091221130758. [PMID: 36168963 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221130758] [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: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In hospice and palliative care, drug therapy is essential for symptom control. However, drug regimens are complex and prone to drug-related problems. Drug regimens must be simplified to improve quality of life and reduce risks associated with drug-related problems, particularly at end-of-life. To support clinical guidance towards a safe and effective drug therapy in hospice care, it is important to understand prescription trends. OBJECTIVES To explore prescription trends and describe changes to drug regimens in inpatient hospice care. DESIGN We performed a retrospective longitudinal and descriptive analysis of prescriptions for regular and as-needed (PRN) medication at three timepoints in deceased patients of one Swiss hospice. SETTING/SUBJECTS Prescription records of all patients (≥ 18 years) with an inpatient stay of three days and longer (admission and time of death in 2020) were considered eligible for inclusion. RESULTS Prescription records of 58 inpatients (average age 71.7 ± 12.8 [37-95] years) were analyzed. The medication analysis showed that polypharmacy prevalence decreased from 74.1% at admission to 13.8% on the day of death. For regular medication, overall numbers of prescriptions decreased over the patient stay while PRN medication decreased after the first consultation by the attending physician and increased slightly towards death. CONCLUSIONS Prescription records at admission revealed high initial rates of polypharmacy that were reduced steadily until time of death. These findings emphasize the importance of deprescribing at end-of-life and suggest pursuing further research on the contribution of clinical guidance towards optimizing drug therapy and deprescribing in inpatient hospice care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursina Wernli
- Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27252Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Graduate School for Health Sciences, 27210University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Désirée Hischier
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacoepidemiology, 27209University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph R Meier
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacoepidemiology, 27209University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Alice Panchaud
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), 27210University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Kobleder
- Institute of Applied Nursing Science, 112888Eastern Switzerland University of Applied SciencesOST, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Carla Meyer-Massetti
- Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27252Inselspital University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacoepidemiology, 27209University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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13
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Gorman A, Rankin A, Hughes C, O'Dwyer M, Ryan C. Theoretically derived interventions aimed at improving appropriate polypharmacy in primary care: A systematic review. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2022; 7:100166. [PMID: 36039374 PMCID: PMC9418988 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2022.100166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Polypharmacy (the use of multiple medications) is common in older patients and achieving a balance between appropriate and inappropriate polypharmacy is a challenge routinely faced by prescribers. It is recommended to incorporate the use of theory when developing complex interventions, but it is not known if theoretically derived interventions aimed at improving appropriate polypharmacy are effective. Objective This systematic review aimed to establish the overall effectiveness of theoretically derived interventions on improving appropriate polypharmacy and to investigate the degree to which theory informed intervention design. Methods Seven electronic databases were searched from inception to August 2021 including hand-searching of reference lists. Interventions developed using a theory, involving the use of a validated tool to assess prescribing, delivered in primary care to participants with a mean age of ≥65 years and prescribed ≥four medications, were included. Data was extracted independently by two reviewers. The Theory Coding Scheme (TCS) was applied to evaluate the use of theory; Risk of Bias (RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool. Results Two studies, one feasibility study and one randomised controlled trial (RCT) were included, and therefore overall effectiveness of the theoretically derived intervention could not be assessed. Theory used in development included the Theoretical Domains Framework and Reason's system-based risk management theory. The RCT was rated to have a high RoB. Based on the TCS, neither study used theory completely. Conclusion The effectiveness of theoretically derived interventions to improve appropriate polypharmacy in primary care could not be determined due to the small number of studies and their heterogeneity. Further incorporation of theory into intervention development is required to understand the effectiveness of this approach. Prospero registration: CRD42020157175.
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Assessment of Polypharmacy, Drug Use Patterns, and Associated Factors at the Edna Adan University Hospital, Hargeisa, Somaliland. J Trop Med 2022; 2022:2858987. [PMID: 36072826 PMCID: PMC9444466 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2858987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Polypharmacy is the use of multiple drugs by a patient at the same time and is common in the elderly. To our knowledge, drug use patterns in Somaliland are rarely studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate polypharmacy, drug use patterns, and their predictors at the Edna Adan University Hospital in Hargeisa, Somaliland. A retrospective cohort analysis of 1140 medical records and prescriptions over a year from August 28, 2019, to August 27, 2020, was reviewed. The data completeness and consistency were checked and entered with the SPSS version 25.0. The association between total polypharmacy and different variables was analyzed using multivariable binary logistic regression and expressed as an odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). In addition, the World Health Organization’s core drug use and facility indicators were used to assess the drug use patterns. The overall polypharmacy in this study was 71%. Statistically significant association was observed between the polypharmacy and variables such as age (
; OR = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.9–6.1), chronic illness (
, OR = 8.6, 95% CI = 5.1–14.7), and comorbidity (
, OR = 5.2, 95% CI = 2.1–12.9). However, the ward admitted/visited and gender did not have a statistically significant association with polypharmacy. There was overuse of brand drugs (63.9%) and antibiotics (55.2%), while the use of injectables (19.9%) was within the acceptable range. Polypharmacy and overuse of brand drugs and antibiotics were prevalent in the study setting. Essential drugs list, formularies, and treatment and regulatory guidelines are needed in place to ensure appropriate drug use.
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Bawazeer G, Alsaad S, Almalag H, Alqahtani A, Altulaihi N, Alodhayani A, AlHossan A, Sales I. Impact of Specialized Clinics on Medications Deprescribing in Older Adults: A Pilot Study in Ambulatory Care Clinics in a Teaching Hospital. Saudi Pharm J 2022; 30:1027-1035. [PMID: 35903532 PMCID: PMC9315319 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
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Veronin MA. An Atypical Case of Extreme Polypharmacy. Drug Healthc Patient Saf 2022; 14:19-26. [PMID: 35299593 PMCID: PMC8922231 DOI: 10.2147/dhps.s332954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A commonly reported definition of polypharmacy is the numerical definition of 5 or more medications daily, and definitions have ranged from 2 or more to 11 or more medications. In this case report, an extreme case of polypharmacy is presented, highlighted by the inordinate number of drugs used over time throughout the patient’s care. A 48-year-old African American female with multiple comorbidities experienced a serious adverse drug event (ADE) prompting reporting to MedWatch, the US Food and Drug Administration’s adverse drug event reporting system. The patient’s concomitant medications included 146 drug entities, across 82 therapeutic drug categories. It is apparent that the greatest influence on the occurrence of polypharmacy was the presence of multiple comorbidities, and treatment centered around addressing each morbidity with drug therapy. This case illustrates the insidious nature of polypharmacy and raises questions as to the appropriate progression and limits on the use of multiple medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Veronin
- Social and Administrative Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Health Outcomes, The University of Texas at Tyler, Ben and Maytee Fisch College of Pharmacy, Tyler, TX, 75799, USA
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Mesonero F, Fernández C, Sánchez-Rodríguez E, García-García Paredes A, Senosiain C, Albillos A, López-Sanromán A. Polypharmacy in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Prevalence and Outcomes in a Single-center Series. J Clin Gastroenterol 2022; 56:e189-e195. [PMID: 34864790 PMCID: PMC8843391 DOI: 10.1097/mcg.0000000000001647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polypharmacy can complicate the course and management of chronic diseases, and has been little explored in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to date. AIM The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of polypharmacy in a series of IBD patients, describing associated factors and its correlation with poor disease outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective study of a single-center series. Polypharmacy was defined as the simultaneous use of 5 or more drugs. Disease outcomes, IBD treatment nonadherence and undertreatment were evaluated at 1 year. RESULTS A total of 407 patients were included [56% males, median age: 48 y (interquartile range, 18 to 92 y)], of whom 60.2% had Crohn's disease; Chronic comorbidity and multiple comorbidities were present in 54% and 27% of patients, respectively. Median number of prescriptions per patient was 3 (range: 0 to 15). Polypharmacy was identified in 18.4% of cases, inappropriate medication in 10.5% and use of high-risk drugs in 6.1% (mainly opioids). In multivariate analysis, polypharmacy was associated with chronic comorbidity [odds ratio (OR)=10.1, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.14-47.56; P˂0.003], multiple comorbidities (OR=3.53, 95% CI: 1.46-8.51; P=0.005) and age above 62 years (OR=3.54, 95% CI: 1.67-7.51; P=0.001). No association with poor disease outcomes was found at 12 months. However, polypharmacy was the only factor associated with IBD treatment nonadherence (OR=2.24, 95% CI: 1.13-4.54, P=0.02). CONCLUSIONS Polypharmacy occurs in around 1 in 5 patients with IBD, mainly in older adults and those with comorbidity. This situation could interfere with adherence to IBD treatment and therapeutic success.
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Lun P, Law F, Ho E, Tan KT, Ang W, Munro Y, Ding YY. Optimising prescribing practices in older adults with multimorbidity: a scoping review of guidelines. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e049072. [PMID: 34907045 PMCID: PMC8671917 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-049072] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inappropriate polypharmacy occurs when multiple medications are prescribed without clear indications or where harms outweigh their benefits. The aims of this scoping review are to (1) identify prescribing guidelines that are available for older adults with multimorbidity and (2) to identify cross-cutting themes used in these guidelines. DESIGN Scoping review. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library databases, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, grey literature sources, six key geriatrics journals, and reference lists of identified review papers. The search was conducted in November 2018 and updated in September 2019. STUDY SELECTION General prescribing guidelines tailored to or for adults including older adults with multimorbidity. DATA EXTRACTION Data for publication description, guideline characteristics, information for users and criteria were extracted. The synthesis contains summarised qualitative descriptions of the studies and guideline characteristics as well as identified cross-cutting themes. RESULTS Our search strategy yielded 10 427 unique citations, of which 70 fulfilled the inclusion criteria for synthesis. Among these, there were 61 unique guidelines and tools which used implicit, explicit, mixed or other approaches in the prescriber decision-making process. There are 11 cross-cutting themes identified in the guidelines. Prescriber-related themes are: conduct a comprehensive assessment before prescribing, identify patients' needs, goals and priorities, adopt shared decision-making, consider evidence-based recommendations, use clinical prescribing tools, incorporate multidisciplinary inputs and embrace technology-enabled prescribing. Wider organisation-related and system-related themes related to education, training and the work environment are also identified. CONCLUSIONS From guidelines and tools identified, eleven cross-cutting themes provide a usable knowledge base when seeking to optimise prescribing among older adults with multimorbidity. Incorporating these themes in an approach that uses mixed criteria and implementation information could facilitate greater uptake of published prescribing recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penny Lun
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute, Singapore
| | - Felicia Law
- Geriatric Medicine, National Healthcare Group Woodlands Health Campus, Singapore
| | - Esther Ho
- Geriatric Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Wendy Ang
- Pharmacy, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yasmin Munro
- Medical Library, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Singapore
| | - Yew Yoong Ding
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute, Singapore
- Geriatric Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
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Tangiisuran B, Rajendran V, Sha'aban A, Daud NAA, Nawi SNM. Physicians' perceived barriers and enablers for deprescribing among older patients at public primary care clinics: a qualitative study. Int J Clin Pharm 2021; 44:201-213. [PMID: 34642869 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-021-01336-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Increased harmful effects of medication resulting from polypharmacy, especially among older patients, is a significant concern globally. Hence, continuous medication review and withdrawal of inappropriate medications are essential to improve patient safety. Objective To explore physicians' perceived barriers and enablers of deprescribing among older patients in the public primary healthcare setting. Setting Public primary care clinics in the northern states of Malaysia. Methods A semi-structured, face-to-face interview was conducted among physicians working in eight primary care clinics in northern Malaysia using a purposive sampling approach. Interviews were conducted using validated topic guides. All the responses were recorded, transcribed verbatim, validated, and analysed for the emerging themes using thematic analysis. Main outcome measure Physicians perceived barriers and enablers of deprescribing among geriatric patients. Results A total of eleven physicians were interviewed. Seven emerging themes were identified, which are categorised under barriers and enablers of deprescribing. The barriers were patient-specific, prescriber-specific, and healthcare provision and system. Prescriber deprescribing competencies, medication-specific outcomes, availability of empirical evidence, and pharmacist's role were the enablers identified. Conclusion Patient-specific barriers were identified as a significant challenge for deprescribing. Improving competencies on deprescribing was the repeatedly adduced enabler by physicians. The development of targeted educational training can help to reduce the obstacles faced by prescribers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balamurugan Tangiisuran
- National Poison Centre, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
| | - Vijitha Rajendran
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Abubakar Sha'aban
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.,Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Nur Aizati Athirah Daud
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Siti Nurbaya Mohd Nawi
- School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Frahm N, Hecker M, Zettl U. Polypharmacy in chronic neurological diseases: Multiple sclerosis, dementia and Parkinson's disease. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 27:4008-4016. [PMID: 34323180 DOI: 10.2174/1381612827666210728102832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Polypharmacy is an important aspect of medication management and particularly affects elderly and chronically ill people. Patients with dementia, Parkinson's disease (PD) or multiple sclerosis (MS) are at high risk for multimedication due to their complex symptomatology. Our aim was to provide an overview of different definitions of polypharmacy and to present the current state of research on polypharmacy in patients with dementia, PD or MS. The most common definition of polypharmacy in the literature is the concomitant use of ≥5 medications (quantitative definition approach). Polypharmacy rates of up to >50% have been reported for patients with dementia, PD or MS, although MS patients are on average significantly younger than those with dementia or PD. The main predictor of polypharmacy is the complex symptom profile of these neurological disorders. Potentially inappropriate medication (PIM), drug-drug interactions, poor treatment adherence, severe disease course, cognitive impairment, hospitalisation, poor quality of life, frailty and mortality have been associated with polypharmacy in patients with dementia, PD or MS. For patients with polypharmacy, either the avoidance of PIM (selective deprescribing) or the substitution of PIM with more suitable drugs (appropriate polypharmacy) is recommended to achieve a more effective therapeutic management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Frahm
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunology Section, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael Hecker
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunology Section, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Uwe Zettl
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunology Section, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
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21
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Taghy N, Cambon L, Boulliat C, Aromatario O, Dussart C. Exploring the Determinants of Polypharmacy Prescribing and Dispensing Behaviours in Primary Care for the Elderly-Protocol for a Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18147656. [PMID: 34300106 PMCID: PMC8303935 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Polypharmacy is becoming increasingly common, especially among the elderly. It often has a negative connotation, but is sometimes necessary or even desirable, and needed to categorize polypharmacy as appropriate or inappropriate. The challenge is in ensuring that this is considered appropriate when necessary. We aimed to develop an evidence-based intervention to reduce the risks associated with using a systematic approach, involving key stakeholders in prescribing and dispensing drugs to the elderly in primary care. The purpose of this study is to identify the key components which are perceived as influencing these behaviours. It is a qualitative study of general practitioners (GPS) and community pharmacists involved in the care of the elderly. The main inclusion criterion is the geographic location. Qualitative data will be generated from one-on-one, semi-structured interviews and processed for thematic content analysis. Our approach integrates the patient pathway in primary care. It considers the fact that GP and pharmacist behaviours are far from being independent. This study represents the first step in the process of developing an intervention theory which involves a crossover between data from the literature and the knowledge of experts, allowing us to interrogate hypotheses about the influences and mechanisms associated with prescribing and dispensing drugs to the elderly in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najwa Taghy
- Laboratory P2S (Systemic Health Process), University Claude Bernard of Lyon 1, University of Lyon, EA4129 Lyon, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Linda Cambon
- ISPED, U1219 Inserm Center, Bordeaux Population Health, University of Bordeaux, CHU Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France; (L.C.); (O.A.)
| | | | - Olivier Aromatario
- ISPED, U1219 Inserm Center, Bordeaux Population Health, University of Bordeaux, CHU Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France; (L.C.); (O.A.)
| | - Claude Dussart
- Lyon Public Hospices, Central Pharmacy, Laboratory P2S (Systemic Health Process), University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, EA4129 Lyon, France;
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22
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Pazan F, Wehling M. Polypharmacy in older adults: a narrative review of definitions, epidemiology and consequences. Eur Geriatr Med 2021; 12:443-452. [PMID: 33694123 PMCID: PMC8149355 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-021-00479-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of older adults has been constantly growing around the globe. Consequently, multimorbidity and related polypharmacy have become an increasing problem. In the absence of an accepted agreement on the definition of polypharmacy, data on its prevalence in various studies are not easily comparable. Besides, the evidence on the potential adverse clinical outcomes related to polypharmacy is limited though polypharmacy has been linked to numerous adverse clinical outcomes. This narrative review aims to find and summarize recent publications on definitions, epidemiology and clinical consequences of polypharmacy. METHODS The MEDLINE database was used to identify recent publications on the definition, prevalence and clinical consequences of polypharmacy using their respective common terms and their variations. Systematic reviews and original studies published between 2015 and 2020 were included. RESULTS One hundred and forty-three definitions of polypharmacy and associated terms were found. Most of them are numerical definitions. Its prevalence ranges from 4% among community-dwelling older people to over 96.5% in hospitalized patients. In addition, numerous adverse clinical outcomes were associated with polypharmacy. CONCLUSION The term polypharmacy is imprecise, and its definition is yet subject to an ongoing debate. The clinically oriented definitions of polypharmacy found in this review such as appropriate or necessary polypharmacy are more useful and relevant. Regardless of the definition, polypharmacy is highly prevalent in older adults, particularly in nursing home residents and hospitalized patients. Approaches to increase the appropriateness of polypharmacy can improve clinical outcomes in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhad Pazan
- Clinical Pharmacology Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Martin Wehling
- Clinical Pharmacology Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany.
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Ballester P, Richdale AL, Baker EK, Peiró AM. Sleep in autism: A biomolecular approach to aetiology and treatment. Sleep Med Rev 2020; 54:101357. [PMID: 32759030 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2020.101357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly experience other comorbidities. Studies indicate that between 50% and 83% of individuals with ASD have sleep problems or disorders. The most commonly reported sleep problems are: (a) insomnia symptoms including the inability to get to sleep or stay asleep; and (b) circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders, defined as a misalignment between the timing of endogenous circadian rhythms and the external environment. The circadian system provides timing information for the sleep-wake cycle that is regulated by the interaction of an endogenous processes (circadian - Process C, and homeostatic - Process S) and synchronizing agents (neurohormones and neurotransmitters), which produce somnogenic activity. A clinical priority in ASD is understanding the cause of these sleep problems in order to improve treatment outcomes. This review approaches sleep in autism from several perspectives: Sleep-wake mechanisms and problems, and brain areas and molecules controlling sleep (e.g., GABA and melatonin) and wake maintenance (e.g., serotonin, acetylcholine and glutamate). Specifically, this review examines how altered sleep structure could be related to neurobiological alterations or genetic mutations and the implications this may have for potential pharmacological treatments in individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ballester
- Neuropharmacology on Pain and Functional Diversity (NED) Research Group, Alicante Institute of Sanitary and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Organic Chemistry and Pediatrics, Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Elche, Spain.
| | - A L Richdale
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology & Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - E K Baker
- Diagnosis and Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia; School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - A M Peiró
- Neuropharmacology on Pain and Functional Diversity (NED) Research Group, Alicante Institute of Sanitary and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Organic Chemistry and Pediatrics, Miguel Hernández University of Elche, Elche, Spain
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