Anticholinergic and sedative medications use among community dwelling older adults: risk for polypharmacy and poor...

Anticholinergic and/or sedative mediations are one of the most commonly prescribed medication groups in older adults. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anticholinergic and/or sedative mediations use in community dwelling older adults as well as potentially associated factors with their use.

A cross sectional study was conducted among community dwelling older adults who accepted invitation for geriatric screening in the Public Education Centres (PEC) in Türkiye. The subgroup study population was selected among those who used at least one medication. The prevalence of anticholinergic and/or sedative mediations use, comprehensive geriatric tests, drug-drug interactions and polypharmacy were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed to identify associated factors with anticholinergic and/or sedative mediations use.

A total of 608 older adults voluntarily participated in the study from the 16 PEC. Among these 372 were eligible (61%). The prevalence of anticholinergic and/or sedative medications use was 36% among the community dwelling older adults. Polypharmacy was present in 32% of the them. Drug-drug interactions involved anticholinergic and/or sedative medications was common (42%). Polypharmacy (p < 0.001) and poor physical function (frailty, p = 0.026; sarcopenia, p = 0.003; instrumental activities of daily living, p = 0.001; and activities of daily living, p = 0.045) were found to be associated with the use of anticholinergic and/or sedative medications in this study.

With common anticholinergic and/or sedative mediations use and its associated risk for polypharmacy, poor physical function and drug-drug interactions, their use must be balanced with their potential risks and benefits.