Inappropriate prescribing and adverse drug events in older people
2009

Inappropriate Prescribing in Older People

Commentary

Author Information

Author(s): Hamilton Hilary J, Gallagher Paul F, O'Mahony Denis

Primary Institution: Department of Geriatric Medicine, Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland

Hypothesis

Inappropriate prescribing in older patients is highly prevalent and associated with increased risks of adverse drug events.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of inappropriate prescribing and preventable adverse drug events in older people is a significant public health concern.

Supporting Evidence

  • Inappropriate prescribing is highly prevalent in older people.
  • Up to 35% of community-dwelling older people experience adverse drug events each year.
  • IP is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.

Takeaway

Older people often get the wrong medications, which can make them sick. We need better ways to check if their prescriptions are safe.

Limitations

The study highlights the need for better screening tools but does not provide specific data on their effectiveness.

Participant Demographics

Older patients, particularly those with multiple co-morbidities.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2318-9-5

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