Latin Agency for News of Medicine and Public Health
The population of older adults in the world is increasingly high, in Spain according to the Statistics National Institute By the year 2033 it will represent more than 25.2%, these patients are the ones who mostly ingest drugs with more frequency and quantity.
Certain medications such as (diazepam and lorazepam), some highly prescribed for older adults, are not recommended in the population over 65 years of age because at this stage of life they are sensitive to adverse effects that may suffer excessive drowsiness and, as a consequence of it , falls.
The longer the longevity, the more chronic diseases
Being an older adult is associated with the increase in chronic diseases, limitation of mobility, functions and morbidity, this situation represents a challenge for the health systems of the world since these patients increase the use of health services and the consumption of drugs.
Polypharmacy
The World Health Organization defined the simultaneous use of multiple drugs, five or more, as polypharmacy. Taking different medicines at the same time increases the likelihood of drug interactions.
Polypharmacy is associated with adverse drug reactions, increased hospital admissions, delirium, falls, disability, and mortality. However, it must be taken into account that the use of several medications at the same time for a large percentage of those who take them is necessary and beneficial.
Preventive measures
World Health Organization developed a report called Drug Safety in Polypharmacy in order to propose alternatives to deal with the problem:
- Implement periodic reviews of medication in polymedicated patients.
- Address appropriate polypharmacy at the beginning of treatment, during medication review, and in transitions between healthcare teams.
- Allow healthcare professionals and patients to discuss issues related to polypharmacy, what it calls a “culture of safety”.
- Implement policies that support the appropriate management of polypharmacy and promote multidisciplinary work, eliminating barriers.
- A people-centered approach, reviewing medication with patients and / or their caregivers.
- Address lifestyle issues during the medication review process.
- Use appropriate technologies to reduce medication-related harm, improving patient experience and adherence to treatment.
- Report incidents with medications, including adverse reactions, hospitalization or attendance to the primary health center due to symptoms related to its use.
THE COUNTRY. What are the consequences of excess drug use in older people? Available in: https://elpais.com/elpais/2020/08/08/sesenta_y_tantos/1596871209_035801.html
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