USE OF POTENTIALLY INAPPROPRIATE MEDICATION BY PHYSICALLY INDEPENDENT ELDERLY

Ariane Bachega, Mayra C. Frâncica, João Paulo M. Santos, Bianca B. P. Fernandes, Paulo Victor C. Dalaqua, Paulo R. Bignardi and Karen B. P. Fernandes*

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The aging process is related to an increase in comorbidities and medication use, evoking adverse events and negative impact on functional status in elderly. Aims: This study aimed to identify the profile of older adults and the factors related to the use of potentially inappropriate medication (PIM). Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, and observational study, involving 501 physically independent elder individuals (age over 60 years). To assess the use of potentially inappropriate medication, Beers-Fick and Priscus criteria were considered adjusted to Brazilian Pharmacopoeia. Results: Nearly 18% of the study population was taking PIM, mainly medication acting at central nervous system, particularly benzodiazepines. An association between the use of potentially inappropriate medication and polypharmacy was observed considering both Priscus (p=0.0001) and Beers-Fick list (p=0.0001). Similar results were observed concerning the multimorbidity and both criteria (Priscus and Beers-Fick, p=0.0001). Regarding the economic status, individuals with lower income tend to use more frequently potentially inappropriate medication according to both lists (p=0.016). However, no association between gender, age or education level with the potentially inappropriate medication use was verified (p>0.05). Conclusions: Older adults with worse economic status, with multimorbidity and polypharmacy consumption have a higher risk of using potentially inappropriate medication, particularly central nervous system acting agents. Thus, educational preventive strategies and additional studies are highly recommended to improve the prescription of medicine for the elderly.

Keywords: Elderly; Polypharmacy; Potentially Inappropriate Medication; Older adults; Drugs.