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Polypharmacy and perioperative medications in the elderly
1Harvard Medical School, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA. sbarnett@bidmc.harvard.edu
Anesthesiology Clinics
|October 15, 2009
Summary
Polypharmacy affects over 40% of older adults, requiring comprehensive medication reviews. Recognizing and avoiding anticholinergic drugs is crucial to prevent adverse events in the elderly during surgery.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Polypharmacy, the concurrent use of multiple medications, is a prevalent issue in the geriatric population, affecting over 40% of individuals.
- Obtaining accurate medication histories in elderly patients is challenging but essential, encompassing both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Observation:
- Physiological changes associated with aging increase the susceptibility of elderly patients to adverse drug events.
- Certain medications possess significant anticholinergic properties that can exacerbate age-related vulnerabilities.
Findings:
- A substantial portion of the geriatric population experiences polypharmacy.
- Age-related physiological alterations heighten the risk of adverse drug reactions.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers must prioritize thorough medication reconciliation for older adults.
- Avoiding medications with potent anticholinergic effects is critical for enhancing perioperative safety in the elderly.
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