Polypharmacy Flashcards
1
Q
Define polypharmacy
A
When a person is on multiple medications, often more than 4, and is associated with several adverse outcomes
2
Q
In brief, how does polypharmacy cause adverse outcomes?
A
Increased ADRs, more drug-drug interactions, decreased adherence
3
Q
What factors lead to polypharmacy?
A
Older age, multiple pathology, poor pt education, lack of routine med review, pt expectations of prescribing, poor communication between specialists.
4
Q
What are some common drugs, causing ADRs, to look out for in a med review?
A
NSAIDs Diuretics Warfarin ACEi B-blocker Opiates Anti depressants Benzodiazepines Anticholinergics
5
Q
What is the STOPP-START tool?
A
Screening tool used to review medications
6
Q
What is Beers’ criteria?
A
Tool used to categorise drugs w/ different levels of caution
