Pharmacist Interventions to Reduce Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults

Abstract

Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) represent a significant problem in geriatric care due to age-related physiological changes, multiple
chronic conditions, and the increasing prevalence of polypharmacy among older adults. Inappropriate prescribing has been linked to adverse
drug effects, hospitalizations owing to side effects of medications, disability, diminished quality of life, and higher health care costs. Medication
review, deprescribing programs, patient education, clinical decision support, and collaboration with other health care professionals have all
become important ways for pharmacists to help identify, prevent, and decrease inappropriate medication use. This systematic review examines the
impact of pharmacist-led interventions to promote more effective prescribing and medication safety in older people in hospitals, the community,
and long-term care environments. Randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and systematic reviews have all shown that pharmacist
interventions are effective in reducing PIMs, optimizing therapeutic outcomes, and improving health outcomes of patients. It also explores
the barriers to the implementation of pharmacist-led interventions, such as limited integration with the healthcare system, communication
issues, and limited availability of resources. Enhancing collaborative care models and expanding pharmacist involvement in geriatric medication
management may further improve medication appropriateness and patient safety among older adults.