Development of a polypharmacy check sheet for countermeasures against polypharmacy

Abstract

This research aims to develop a polypharmacy check sheet as part of countermeasures against polypharmacy. Polypharmacy is not just a large number of medications taken, but has been associated with adverse outcomes, such as adverse drug reactions, re-admission to hospital soon after discharge, and mortality. In addition, polypharmacy is common among older adults with multiple chronic comorbidities. In a wide range of age groups, such as children and the elderly, and in specific diseases such as heart failure and depression, the number of people with adverse drug reactions increases as the number of medications increases. Polypharmacy is considered as a problem for the elderly but is an issue for everyone who takes medication. In this study, we will specifically discuss prescription regimens in the elderly, pediatric and pregnant women, neurology and psychiatry, cancer, acute illness / infectious diseases, and cardiovascular diseases, which are the specialized areas of the six national centers. We aim to develop a check sheet that finds out the state of polypharmacy. This study will help in taking a preventative approach to polypharmacy problems. We believe that this study can contribute to the safety of pharmacotherapy, reduce adverse drug reactions, improve medication adherence, and reduce medical expenses.

Perspectives

Polypharmacy screening
Optimization of medication regimens
Early detection of adverse drug reactions
Reduction of medical expenses

Comments from principal researcher

Fumihiro Mizokami（National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacist)

Polypharmacy is not just a large number of medications taken, and the harm caused by drug administration. Polypharmacy conditions are most common in the elderly, and occur in a variety of conditions, including the addition of drugs for multiple diseases and adverse drug reactions. Therefore, it is important to detect polypharmacy problems accurately. I would like to establish a method that detects polypharmacy problems accurately.