[Less can be more-Examples on medication in older and geriatric patients from current studies].

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

• Polypharmacy, defined as using five or more medications, is prevalent in older adults.
• It is associated with adverse events like side effects, drug interactions, hospitalization, and mortality.
• Current guidelines exist, but evidence for effective medication reduction strategies is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent studies on managing polypharmacy in geriatric patients.
• To demonstrate methods for critically appraising and discontinuing medications.
• To provide evidence-based approaches for reducing drug burden in the elderly.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent research on potentially inappropriate medication (PIM).
• Analysis of studies on vitamin D substitution in the elderly.
• Examination of research on antipsychotic drug use and discontinuation in geriatrics.

Main Results:

• Studies show PIM is common and associated with negative outcomes.
• Vitamin D substitution requires careful indication assessment.
• Antipsychotic medication review can lead to successful discontinuation in some geriatric patients.

Conclusions:

• Critical appraisal of drug indications is essential for safe medication reduction.
• Discontinuing unnecessary medications can improve geriatric health outcomes.
• Further research is needed to establish best practices for limiting polypharmacy.