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Use of potentially inappropriate medications in an ambulatory Medicare population

Joseph A Woelfel1, Rajul A Patel, Mark P Walberg

  • 1University of the Pacific, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Stockton, California.

The Consultant Pharmacist : the Journal of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists
|December 14, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

A study found that 18.3% of Medicare beneficiaries used potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs), with benzodiazepines and antiarrhythmics being the most common classes. This highlights the need for careful medication review in older adults.

Area of Science:

  • Geriatric Pharmacy
  • Pharmacovigilance
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use is a significant concern in older adults, particularly among Medicare beneficiaries.
  • The Beers criteria provide a framework for identifying PIMs based on limited effectiveness or potential for harm.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of PIM use in ambulatory Medicare beneficiaries.
  • To identify the most common PIMs and PIM classes utilized by this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted.
  • Data were collected from 295 ambulatory Medicare beneficiaries (aged 65-98) at nine community outreach events.
  • Pharmacy students, supervised by pharmacists, performed medication reviews to identify PIMs using the Beers criteria.

Main Results:

  • 18.3% (54) of beneficiaries were taking at least one PIM.
  • The most frequently identified PIMs included alprazolam, clonidine, and estrogen.
  • Benzodiazepines and antiarrhythmics were the most common PIM classes identified.

Conclusions:

  • A substantial proportion of older adults, specifically Medicare beneficiaries, are exposed to potentially inappropriate medications.
  • Prescribers and pharmacists must ensure medication appropriateness for older adults to mitigate risks.
  • Community outreach events serve as effective platforms for identifying and addressing PIM use in senior populations.

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