Introduction:
As the average life span increases, older patients are likely to have multiple chronic diseases. This often translates to polypharmacy, which can result in adverse drug reactions and treatment failures.
Body:
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes associated with aging increase the susceptibility of older patients to drug accumulation and interactions. Duplications of therapy, dose errors, and drug interactions are common. Falls, delirium, renal failure, and non-compliance are often iatrogenic but under-appreciated. The pharmacist has a vital role in medication reconciliation and the evaluation of potentially inappropriate medications.
Conclusion:
Medication review and deprescribing, where indicated, can make a big difference in the safety and quality of life of older patients. Polypharmacy should not be passively accepted.
MBH/AB