[Rational use of antipsychotics in elderly patients: A qualitative approach]

Antipsychotics are frequently prescribed in elderly patients. The aim of this study was to explore the barriers that hinder their rational use in this population in a hospital in Argentina METHOD: A qualitative study based on ten semi-structured individual interviews with doctors from various specialties working in outpatient clinics, conducted between May and November 2022. The focus was on identifying perceptions and practices related to the prescription of antipsychotics in elderly patient populations.

Various difficulties in making rational use of antipsychotics were identified: a) Prescription issues, such as drug selection primarily based on the professional's experience and the tendency to use low doses and short-term treatments without considering the patient's clinical progression; b) underestimation of metabolic side effects in the elderly patient population; c) limitations of the healthcare system, such as difficulty in accessing consultations between psychiatry and other medical specialties, and deficiencies in training; d) patient or family preferences that often conflict with medical recommendations.

Barriers to the rational prescription of antipsychotics in elderly patients were identified, both among psychiatrists and doctors from other specialties. These difficulties could compromise the efficacy and safety of treatment in this vulnerable population. Highlighting this information could help healthcare organizations develop strategies to improve the quality of care.