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Drug-related problems in older adults
Randal P McDonough1, James W Cooper
1University of Iowa College of Pharmacy, Iowa City, USA.
Journal of the American Pharmaceutical Association (Washington, D.C. : 1996)
|September 26, 2002
Summary
Older adults face high risks of medication errors. Pharmacists play a crucial role in preventing these issues through comprehensive medication reviews and consulting across various healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Pharmacology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Older adults are a vulnerable population susceptible to medication misadventures.
- Polypharmacy and age-related physiological changes increase the risk of adverse drug events in this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical role of pharmacists in mitigating medication-related problems in older adults.
- To emphasize the importance of medication reviews and consulting services for geriatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Pharmacists conduct thorough medication reviews.
- Identification of drug-related problems.
- Development of targeted intervention strategies.
Main Results:
- Medication reviews enable pharmacists to detect potential drug-related issues.
- Pharmacists can recommend specific interventions to address identified problems.
- Consultation services can be effectively delivered in diverse practice settings.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacists are essential in ensuring medication safety for older adults.
- Comprehensive medication reviews and interventions by pharmacists can prevent adverse events.
- Pharmacist-led medication consulting is feasible and beneficial in community pharmacies, nursing facilities, and hospitals.