Key messages from scientific research that's ready to be acted on
Got It, Hide thisvan der Cammen TJ, Rajkumar C, Onder G, et al. Drug cessation in complex older adults: time for action. Age Ageing. 2014;43:20-5.
In older adults who have a history of falls, cognitive impairment or delirium, can stopping certain medications reduce these health problems?
Many older people have more than one health problem, and they may take several different medications at the same time. Some medications, or interactions between different medications, can cause falls or confusion. People who are prone to falls or confusion are more likely to be affected by medicines that can cause falls or confusion. In some cases, it might be better for a person to stop taking a medication to stop these side effects.
The researchers did a systematic review, searching for studies up to May 2013. The key features of the studies were:
Stopping psychotropic medications reduced the rate of falls.
Regular medication reviews by family doctors reduced the risk of falls.
Stopping psychotropic medications improved cognition.
No studies looked at the effect of stopping drugs on delirium.
In older people who have a history of falls or cognitive impairment, stopping psychotropic medications and regular medication reviews by family doctors reduce these health problems.
Outcomes | Effects of stopping medications |
Falls | Stopping psychotropic medications reduced falls Regular medication review by family doctors reduced falls |
Cognitive impairment | Stopping psychotropic medications improved cognition |
Delirium | No studies were found. |
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