ABSTRACT

Background: Diabetes will be the 7th leading cause of death by 2030 as per the World Health Organization (WHO). Encouraging the populace to use drugs rationally is the main goal of research on drug usage. Aims and Objectives: The objective of this study is to determine drug utilization pattern among patients with diabetes mellitus using the WHO Core Indicators in a tertiary care hospital, Indore. Materials and Methods: A prospective and observational study was done in the Department of Pharmacology along with the Department of Medicine in MGM Medical College and Hospital, Indore. After taking informed consent from diabetic patients visiting the outpatient department, their demographic details and prescriptions were recorded in case record form and analyzed using WHO core indicators. Results: In our study, total prescription assessed was 123. The total drugs prescribed were 652, out of which a total of 278 were anti-diabetic drugs. The average number of drugs per encounter was 5.3. Percentage of drugs prescribed by generic name = 92.4%. Percentage of encounters with an antibiotic prescribed = 10.5%. Percentage of encounters with an injection prescribed = 34.9%. The percentage of drugs prescribed from the essential drugs list (2015) = 72.3%. Conclusion: Prescribing pattern of anti- diabetic drugs vary a little from the WHO standards. Rational prescription should be encouraged and such studies should be done regularly for periodic auditing of prescription.

ABSTRACT

Background: Psychotropic polypharmacy involves the concurrent prescription of two or more psychotropic medications to a patient. The prevalence varies from 13% to 90%. Polypharmacy may increase the effectiveness of treatment but can increase the chances of adverse effects, drug interactions, cost, and lower adherence. Aim and Objective: The aim and objective of the study are to assess the frequency and the factors associated with psychotropic polypharmacy. Materials and Methods: A cross- sectional study was conducted among adult patients attending a psychiatry clinic in a tertiary care center. The study was initiated after obtaining clearance from the institutional ethics committee and informed consent from the patients. Detailed demographic, disease, and drug data were collected through interviewing and reviewing the case record forms of patients. The Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were used to determine the factors associated with polypharmacy. Results: Of the 125 study participants, 87.2% were aged between 20 and 60 years. The overall frequency of polypharmacy was 68.8%. The frequency of polypharmacy was 100% in bipolar disorder (BPD), 85.2% in psychosis, 81.3% in anxiety, 64.7% in depression, and 52.4% in alcohol dependence syndrome. 70% of BPD and 37% of psychosis patients had antipsychotic polypharmacy and 19% of anxiety patients had selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor polypharmacy. 11% of psychosis patients had polypharmacy of sedatives. On regression analysis, the factors significantly associated with psychotropic polypharmacy were the primary diagnoses of the patient, i.e., psychosis and anxiety. Conclusion: More than half of the patients were noted to have psychotropic polypharmacy. The frequency was higher in BPD and psychosis.

ABSTRACT

Resumen Objetivo: Relacionar la calidad de vida y el uso de polifarmacia en pacientes adultos mayores de la Unidad de Medicina Familiar No. 45 de Cárdenas, Tabasco. Material y Métodos: Estudio cuantitativo, observacional, analítico, transversal, prospectivo, que abarcó desde el mes de marzo hasta junio de 2023, en la Unidad de Medicina Familiar No. 45 IMSS Cárdenas, Tabasco donde se incluyó a 367 pacientes mayores de 60 años. Se aplico con previa firma de consentimiento informado un instrumento validado, el cuestionario WHOQOL-OLD de la OMS que es una adaptación del cuestionario Whoqol-100 y el Whoqol- Bref el cual evalúa la calidad de vida en adultos mayores. Se utilizó un análisis descriptivo: distribución de frecuencias, medidas de tendencia central, para la asociación de variables, método inferencial: p de Pearson (Chi 2), en el programa SPSS versión 21. Resultados: De los 367 pacientes encontramos que hay predominio en el sexo, 229 son mujeres (62.39%) y 138 son hombres (37.61%). Hay una alta prevalencia en las enfermedades crónico-degenerativas 56.1 % (n=206). En cuanto a la polifarmacia el 41.4%(n=152) no utilizan y el 58.6% (n=215) si la utiliza. Se encontró relación con una P Pearson = 0.001 encontramos que el nivel de calidad de vida los adultos mayores que utilizan polifarmacia tienen una percepción de calidad medianamente buena en comparación a los que no utilizan polifarmacia que tienen una percepción de calidad de vida buena. Conclusiones: El uso de polifarmacia en los adultos mayores es frecuente y esto genera un impacto en la calidad de vida, ya que en su mayoría son portadores de enfermedades crónico-degenerativas.

Abstract Objective: To relate the quality of life and the use of polypharmacy in elderly patients in the Family Medicine Unit No. 45 at Cárdenas, Tabasco. Material and Methods: Quantitative, observational, analytical, cross-sectional, and prospective study, which covered from March to June 2023 the Family Medicine Unit No. 45 IMSS at Cárdenas, Tabasco, where 367 patients, aged 60 year or over, were included. A validated instrument, the WHO WHOQOL-OLD questionnaire, which is an adaptation of the Whoqol-100 questionnaire and the Whoqol-Bref, which evaluates the quality of life in older persons, was applied with prior signing of informed consent. A descriptive analysis was used: frequency distribution, measures of central tendency, for the association of variables, inferential method: Pearson's p (Chi 2), in the SPSS version 21 software. Results: It was found that among the 367 patients there is a predominance of sex, 229 are women (62.39%) and 138 are men (37.61%). There is a high prevalence of chronic-degenerative diseases 56.1% (n=206). Regarding polypharmacy, 41.4% (n=152) do not use it and 58.6% (n=215) do use it. A connection with a P person of = 0.001 was found regarding the level of quality of life, older patients who use polypharmacy have a moderately good perception of quality compared to those who do not use polypharmacy who have a good perception of quality of life. Conclusions: The use of polypharmacy in the elderly is frequent and this generates an impact on their quality of life, since most of them are carriers of chronic-degenerative diseases.

ABSTRACT

Background: Trauma is one of the leading causes of death in older patients, who experience higher mortality rates even with less severe injuries compared to younger individuals. Many factors affect the outcomes in elderly trauma patients, with polypharmacy being one of the most significant. The Injury Severity Score (ISS) is an anatomical measure used to estimate the outcomes of trauma patients. This study compares the Comorbidity Polypharmacy Score (CPS) with the ISS to evaluate patient outcomes. Aims and Objectives: To assess the relationship between the Comorbidity– Polypharmacy Score (CPS) and injury severity score (ISS) on outcomes in geriatric trauma patients. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 200 individuals aged over 60 years with clinical evidence of trauma who presented to the emergency department and were subsequently hospitalized. ISS and CPS scores were calculated in the Emergency Department and followed up until discharge. Patients were subdivided into two groups: Group A with a CPS of 0 to 7 and Group B with a CPS of more than 7. Results: The mean age of the 200 patients was 66.41 ± 6.89 years, with 148 men and 52 women. In the study, 42 people had a CPS of more than 7, while 158 had a CPS of 0 to 7. Based on the severity of injuries, 95 people were classified as mild ISS, 51 as moderate, 35 as severe, and 19 as very severe. Compared to Group A, Group B patients had prolonged hospital stays despite having lower ISS scores in the mild to moderate ISS groups. However, this association was not observed in patients with severe to very severe ISS in terms of ICU stay or mortality rates. Conclusion: In our population, patients with higher Comorbidity Polypharmacy Scores had prolonged hospital stays in the mild to moderate Injury Severity Score group. However, in patients with severe to very severe Injury Severity Scores, higher CPS did not affect the length of stay or mortality.

ABSTRACT

Background: Geriatric patients are at a higher risk of drug-related problems (DRPs) because of age-related chronic diseases leading to the use of numerous therapeutic regimens, and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes. DRPs are associated with reduced quality of life, increased hospital admissions, prolonged hospital stays, and increased health-care costs. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed at identifying the category and causes of DRPs so that better strategies can be framed, thereby improving the quality of health care. Materials and Methods: The observational study was conducted among geriatric inpatients in a tertiary care hospital. The DRPs were identified using national and international standard guidelines. The Pharmaceutical Care Network of Europe (PCNE) classification version 9.01 was used to determine the category and causes of DRPs in the patients. Results: Seventy patients were enrolled in the study. A total of 102 DRPs were detected among these patients. The mean number of DRPs per patient was 1.45. According to the PCNE classification, 36 DRPs were related to treatment effectiveness, 27 were related to treatment safety, 25 were unnecessary drug treatments and 14 were related to cost effectiveness of the treatment. One hundred and fifty-one causes of DRPs were identified. The most commonly involved class of drugs in DRPs was antimicrobials. Conclusion: The number of DRPs noted in the present study was lower than those in the other studies. Majority of DRPs were treatment effectiveness-associated and caused due to errors in drug selection and use.

ABSTRACT

Resumen Introducción: La polifarmacia inapropiada en adultos mayores con demencia es un problema de salud pública global. En este artículo se describen las indicaciones y se dan pautas para la deprescripción de potenciadores cognitivos (inhibidores de acetilcolinesterasa y memantina) y psicofármacos en pacientes con demencia. Materiales y métodos: Esta es una revisión narrativa a partir del estado del arte sobre la deprescripción en el anciano con demencia. Resultados: La deprescripción no significa limitar esfuerzos terapéuticos, por el contrario, consiste en una estrategia de prevención cuaternaria para reducir el riesgo de reacciones adversas e identificar escenarios donde el beneficio clínico es marginal. Para esto, es necesario rastrear activamente a pacientes con demencia con indicación de deprescripción (falta de respuesta clínica adecuada, desaparición del beneficio con el uso prolongado, estadio de demencia grave o fase terminal). Discusión: Los procesos de deprescripción varían según el grupo farmacológico e incluyen disminuciones progresivas de la medicación, así como el seguimiento y la monitorización para evitar el empeoramiento clínico. Se requiere de programas de educación médica en deprescripción para estudiantes y profesionales en ejercicio, especialmente en servicios de atención primaria en áreas rurales o dispersas, lo cual configura un llamado urgente a la neurología, la psiquiatría y la geriatría. Conclusión: El proceso de deprescripción en el paciente con demencia puede implementarse bajo criterios específicos y de una forma organizada.

Abstract Introduction: Inappropriate polypharmacy in older adults with dementia is a global public health problem. This article describes the indications and gives guidelines for the deprescription of cognitive enhancers (acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine), and psychotropic drugs in patients with dementia. Materials and methods: This is a narrative review article based on the state of the art on deprescribing in the elderly with dementia. Results: Deprescribing does not mean limiting therapeutic efforts; on the contrary, it consists of a quaternary prevention strategy to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and identify scenarios where the clinical benefit is marginal. For this, it is necessary to actively track patients with dementia with an indication for deprescription (lack of adequate clinical response, disappearance of benefit with prolonged use, severe dementia, or palliative phase). Discussion: Deprescribing processes vary depending on the pharmacological group and include progressive reductions in medication, as well as follow-up and monitoring to avoid clinical worsening. Medical education programs in deprescribing are required for students and practicing professionals, especially in primary care services in rural or dispersed areas, which constitutes an urgent call for neurology, psychiatry, and geriatrics. Conclusion: The deprescription process in patients with dementia can be implemented under specific criteria and in an organized manner.

ABSTRACT

Introduction. Medications are a fundamental part of the treatment of multiple pathologies. However, despite their benefits, some are considered potentially inappropriate medications for older people given their safety profile. Epidemiological data differences related to potentially inappropriate medications make it difficult to determine their effects on elderly people. Objective. To estimate the prevalence and types of potentially inappropriate medications using the 2019 Beers Criteria® in a cohort of adults older than 65 years. Materials and methods. We performed an observational, multicenter, retrospective, longitudinal study of a four-year follow-up of potentially inappropriate medications in community-dwelling older adults. Results. We followed 820 participants from five cities for four years (2012-2016) and evaluated them in three different moments (m1 = 2012, m2 = 2014, and m3= 2016). The average age was 69.07 years, and 50.9% were women. The potentially inappropriate medication prevalence in the participants was 40.24%. The potentially inappropriate medications' mean among the studied subjects in the first moment was 1.65 (SD = 0.963), in the second was 1.73 (SD = 1.032), and in the third was 1.62 (SD = 0.915). There were no statistical differences between measurements (Friedman test, value = 0.204). The most frequent potentially inappropriate medications categories were gastrointestinal (39.4%), analgesics (18.8%), delirium-related drugs (15.4%), benzodiazepines (15.2%), and cardiovascular (14.2%). Conclusions. About half of the population of the community-dwelling older adults had prescriptions of potentially inappropriate medications in a sustained manner and without significant variability over time. Mainly potentially inappropriate medications were gastrointestinal and cardiovascular drugs, analgesics, delirium-related drugs, and benzodiazepines.

Introducción. Los fármacos son parte fundamental del tratamiento de múltiples enfermedades. Sin embargo, a pesar de sus beneficios, algunos se consideran medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados en adultos mayores, dado su perfil de seguridad. Las diferencias en los datos epidemiológicos relacionados con los medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados dificultan el establecimiento de sus efectos en adultos mayores. Objetivo. Estimar la prevalencia longitudinal y los tipos de medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados, utilizando los criterios Beers® del 2019 en una cohorte de adultos mayores de 65 años. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio observacional, multicéntrico, retrospectivo y longitudinal, de cuatro años de seguimiento de los medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados en adultos mayores de la comunidad. Resultados. Se evaluaron 820 participantes de cinco ciudades durante cuatro años (2012 a 2016) en tres momentos (m1: 2012, m2: 2014 y m3; 2016). La edad promedio fue de 69,07 años y el 50,9 % eran mujeres. La prevalencia de medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados en los participantes fue del 40,24 %. El promedio de estos medicamentos entre los sujetos estudiados en el primer momento fue de 1,65 (DE = 0,963), en el segundo fue de 1,73 (DE = 1,032) y en el tercero fue de 1,62 (DE = 0,915). No hubo diferencias estadísticas entre las mediciones (prueba de Friedman, p = 0,204). Las categorías de los medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados más frecuentes fueron: gastrointestinales (39,4 %), analgésicos (18,8 %), relacionados con delirium (15,4 %), benzodiacepinas (15,2 %) y cardiovasculares (14,2 %). Conclusiones. En cerca de la mitad de la población de adultos mayores de la comunidad, se prescribieron medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados de manera sostenida y sin variabilidad importante en el tiempo. Los más recetados fueron aquellos para tratar malestares gastrointestinales y cardiovasculares, analgésicos, para el delirium y benzodiacepinas.

ABSTRACT

Objetivo: desenvolver um modelo de receita ilustrativa para facilitar o manejo da polimedicação em pacientes idosos com DAC. Método: trata-se de um estudo metodológico que baseou-se na teoria de Kaplún e foi desenvolvido em três fases principais: 1) estruturação dos tópicos de fármacos conforme as Diretrizes da Sociedade Brasileira de Cardiologia; 2) elaboração e seleção de elementos visuais; 3) desenvolvimento de um modelo de receita ilustrativa. Resultados: a receita ilustrativa resultante categorizou os medicamentos em doze grupos, com subdivisões representadas por imagens que explicam, de maneira simplificada, o mecanismo de ação de cada medicamento. Ademais, foram incorporadas imagens vetoriais que indicavam os horários de administração dos medicamentos, utilizando uma linguagem visual adaptada ao público-alvo. Conclusão: os resultados permitiram a criação de um modelo de receita ilustrativa que promete facilitar o manejo da polimedicação pela população idosa, auxiliando na compreensão e adesão ao tratamento medicamentoso. A abordagem visual e lúdica é uma estratégia inovadora para enfrentar os desafios da polimedicação em idosos com DAC, contribuindo para um manejo mais eficaz e seguro.

Objective: to develop an illustrative prescription model to facilitate the management of polypharmacy in elderly patients with CAD. Methods: this is the methodological study was based on Kaplún's theory and was developed in three main phases: 1) Structuring of drug topics according to the Guidelines of the Brazilian Society of Cardiology; 2) Preparation and selection of visual elements; 3) Development of an illustrative revenue model. Results: the resulting illustrative recipe categorized the medications into twelve groups, with subdivisions represented by images that explain in a simplified way the mechanism of action of each medication. Furthermore, vector images were incorporated to indicate medication administration times using a visual language adapted to the target audience. Conclusion: the results allowed the creation of an illustrative recipe model that promises to facilitate the management of polypharmacy by the elderly population, helping with understanding and adherence to drug treatment. The visual and playful approach is an innovative strategy to face the challenges of polypharmacy in elderly people with CAD, contributing to more effective and safe management.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: This study aimed to survey patients on polypharmacy regarding their own intention and inclination to reduce medication use, and their subjective understanding of drug effectiveness and side effects. We aimed to contribute to the establishment of an information base to address polypharmacy.Methods: We enrolled 100 adult patients who had been admitted and administered ≥ 5 oral medications. A questionnaire was utilized to assess their willingness and inclination to reduce their medications, as well as their subjective understanding of drug effectiveness and side effects.Results: Sixty-two patients expressed an intention to reduce their medication use, citing reasons including medication management, drug combinations, and side effects. The proportion of patients with this intention increased as the number of prescribed medications increased. Of the 38 individuals who responded that they had no intention of reducing their medication, 21 (55.3%) cited the reason as being that they received the prescription from a physician. The level of understanding about the effectiveness of their own medications was significantly lower among those aged ≥ 75 years. However, the level of understanding of side effects did not vary based on age or number of prescriptions.Conclusion: To promote the optimization of prescriptions, it is necessary to ascertain patients' intentions, and the relationship between patients and prescribing physicians.

ABSTRACT

Resumo Objetivo Analisar a frequência de polifarmácia e prescrição de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados (MPI) segundo os Critérios de Beers e CBMPI em pessoas idosas com vulnerabilidade clínico-funcional. Método Trata-se de um estudo transversal onde analisou-se os prontuários de 496 participantes com 60 anos ou mais, atendidos em primeira consulta em uma Policlínica Gerontológica. Os dados sociodemográficos, medicamentos, e o Índice de Vulnerabilidade Clínico Funcional 20 (IVCF-20) e quedas foram extraídos dos prontuários. A polifarmácia foi definida como o uso simultâneo de cinco ou mais medicamentos. Os participantes foram classificados em três grupos: robusto, em risco e vulnerável. Resultados A análise demonstrou que 69 (13,91%) dos participantes faziam uso de polifarmácia. Entre os usuários de polifarmácia, 40 (57,97%) faziam uso de pelo menos um MPI. Os MPIs mais encontrados foram a glibenclamida e o omeprazol, respectivamente. Pessoas idosas com vulnerabilidade apresentaram um risco três vezes maior de apresentar polifarmácia (RP 3,59; IC95% 2,109-6,092). Conclusão O uso de polifarmácia e MPI neste estudo estavam associados à vulnerabilidade da pessoa idosa, reforçando a necessidade de avaliação criteriosa de prescrições medicamentosas para essa população.

Abstract Objective To analyze the frequency of polypharmacy and the prescription of Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIM) according to the Beers Criteria and CBMPI in older adults with clinical-functional vulnerability. Method This is a cross-sectional study where the medical records of 496 participants aged 60 and older, seen in their first appointment at a Gerontological Polyclinic, were analyzed. Sociodemographic data, medications, the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index-20 (IVCF-20), and falls were extracted from the medical records. Polypharmacy was defined as the simultaneous use of five or more medications. Participants were classified into three groups: robust, at risk, and vulnerable. Results The analysis revealed that 69 (13.91%) participants were using polypharmacy. Among polypharmacy users, 40 (57.97%) were using at least one PIM. The most commonly found PIM were glibenclamide and omeprazole, respectively. Older adults with vulnerability were three times more likely to have polypharmacy (OR 3.59; 95% CI 2.109-6.092). Conclusion The use of polypharmacy and PIM in this study was associated with the vulnerability of older adults, emphasizing the need for a thorough evaluation of medication prescriptions for this population.

ABSTRACT

Objetivo: associar a polifarmácia e as classes medicamentosas com o risco de quedas de idosos. Método: estudo transversal e quantitativo, realizado em um ambulatório na cidade de São Paulo ­ SP, com 117 idosos, no período de março a novembro de 2019. A coleta dos dados foi realizada pela transcrição integral dos receituários e pela Escala de Risco de Quedas de Downton. Os testes estatísticos utilizados foram o Mann-Whitney e o Qui-Quadrado, sendo considerado um nível de significância de 5% e intervalo de confiança de 95%. Resultados: o risco de quedas apresentou correlação significativa com o número de medicamentos, média de seis ao dia (p<0,0001) e as classes medicamentosas, os anti-hipertensivos (p<0,0001), os antidiabéticos orais (p=0,027), os diuréticos (p<0,0001) e os antidepressivos (p=0,042). Conclusão: portanto, ressalta-se a importância da avaliação dos fatores relacionados ao aumento do risco de quedas, para planejar e implementar estratégias no cuidado da saúde do idoso

Objective: to associate polypharmacy and medication classes with the risk of falls in the elderly. Method: cross-sectional and quantitative study, carried out in an outpatient clinic in the city of São Paulo ­ SP, with 117 elderly people, from March to November 2019. Data collection was carried out by full transcription of prescriptions and the Falls Risk Scale from Downton. The statistical tests used were the Mann-Whitney and Chi-Square, considering a significance level of 5% and a confidence interval of 95%. Results:the risk of falls presented significantly with the number of medications, an average of 5.8 per day (p<0.0001) and the medication classes, antihypertensives (p<0.0001), oral antidiabetics (p =0.027), diuretics (p<0.0001) and antidepressants (p=0.042). Conclusion:therefore, the importance of evaluating factors related to the increased risk of falls is highlighted, to plan and implement strategies in the health care of the elderly

ABSTRACT

Resumo O objetivo foi estimar a prevalência de multimorbidade no município de São Paulo e verificar os fatores associados à utilização de serviços de saúde. Estudo transversal de base populacional a partir do Inquérito de Saúde do Município de São Paulo (ISA-Capital 2015), em que foi realizada análise descritiva e foram elaborados modelos de regressão logística utilizando como desfecho a multimorbidade e variáveis independentes sociodemográficas, de condições de vida e utilização de serviços de saúde. Participaram 3.184 indivíduos com 20 anos ou mais, idade média de 43,8 anos. A prevalência de multimorbidade foi de 50,7% entre as mulheres, 62,5% entre os que relataram algum problema de saúde e 55,1% entre os que utilizaram serviços de saúde nas duas últimas semanas. Foi identificada maior prevalência nos indivíduos que usaram serviço de saúde por problema de saúde mental (66,1%) e que informaram maiores despesas com saúde no último mês (55,4%). A multimorbidade foi mais frequente com o envelhecimento, na população com nível econômico mais elevado, com pior autoavaliação de saúde, que utilizou serviços de saúde há seis meses ou menos, que relatou problema de saúde, que tinha plano de saúde e fazia uso da polifarmácia.

Abstract The scope of this paper was to estimate the prevalence of multimorbidity in the city of São Paulo and to verify the factors associated with the utilization of the health services. It involved a population based cross-sectional study based on data from the Health Survey in the city of São Paulo, in which descriptive analysis was conducted, and logistic regression models were developed using multimorbidity and sociodemographic independent variables, living conditions and use of health services as the outcome. A total of 3,184 individuals aged 20 years or older participated, with a mean age of 43.8 years. The prevalence of multimorbidity was 50.7% among women, 62.5% among those who reported some health problem and 55.1% among those who had recourse to health services in the last 2 weeks. A higher prevalence was identified among those who used the health service due to a mental health problem (66.1%), and in those who reported higher health expenditures in the preceding month (55.4%). Multimorbidity was more frequently associated with aging, in the population with a higher economic status, with worse self-rated health, who frequented health services for 6 months or less, who reported a health problem, or who had a health plan and opted for polypharmacy.

ABSTRACT

Resumo Objetivo Analisar a associação entre a adesão à terapia medicamentosa com nível de entendimento e complexidade da prescrição, bem como avaliar a concordância entre dois questionários de adesão aplicados a pessoas idosas polimedicadas. Método Trata-se de estudo transversal, com pessoas idosas atendidas no ambulatório de geriatria de um hospital universitário do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Nesses pacientes foi avaliado a adesão à terapia medicamentosa (Brief Medication Questionarie - BMQ e Instrumento de Avaliação da Atitude frente à tomada de remédios - IAAFTR), o conhecimento sobre os medicamentos prescritos e a complexidade da farmacoterapia. Para análise estatística foram utilizados testes qui-quadrado e exato de Fisher sendo considerado o nível de significância de p-valor ≤0,05. A concordância entre os dois métodos de adesão foi avaliada pelo índice Kappa. Resultados Dos 49 idosos entrevistados, 75,5% eram mulheres, hipertensão arterial (82%) e diabetes (37%) as doenças mais prevalentes. Observou-se pelos testes BMQ e IAAFTR que 35% e 45% dos pacientes, respectivamente, eram aderentes a terapia medicamentosa. Não houve concordância de resultado entre os métodos de adesão. Grande parte dos pacientes apresentou bom nível de informação sobre seus medicamentos, porém, a maioria deles foi considerada não aderente. Não foi observado associação estatisticamente significativa entre a complexidade da prescrição frente a adesão e ao nível de informação sobre medicamentos. Conclusão A adesão a terapia medicamentosa é um processo multifatorial e as ferramentas de avaliação de adesão e de outros fatores que a influência deve ser criteriosamente escolhida de acordo com a população de estudo, pois em nosso trabalho elas apresentaram respostas diferenciadas.

Abstract Objective To analyze the association between medication therapy adherence and level of understanding and complexity of the prescription, as well as to assess the agreement between two adherence questionnaires administered to polymedicated older adults. Method This is a cross-sectional study involving older adults attending the geriatrics outpatient clinic at a university hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In these patients, medication therapy adherence (assessed using the Brief Medication Questionnaire - BMQ and the Instrument for Assessing Attitudes Toward Medication Taking - IAAFTR), knowledge about prescribed medications, and pharmacotherapy complexity were evaluated. Statistical analysis was conducted using Chi-square tests and Fisher's Exact test, with a significance level set at p-value ≤ 0.05. The agreement between the two adherence methods was assessed using the Kappa index. Results Of the 49 interviewed older adults, 75.5% were women, with arterial hypertension (82%) and diabetes (37%) being the most prevalent conditions. According to the BMQ and IAAFTR tests, 35% and 45% of patients, respectively, were adherent to medication therapy. There was no agreement in the results between the adherence methods. A large proportion of patients exhibited a good level of information about their medications; however, the majority of them were considered non-adherent. No statistically significant association was observed between prescription complexity and adherence, nor between the level of medication information and adherence. Conclusion Medication therapy adherence is a multifactorial process, and the assessment tools for adherence and other influencing factors should be carefully chosen according to the study population, as they exhibited different responses in our work.

ABSTRACT

Resumo Objetivo Investigar a prevalência de polifarmácia e os seus fatores associados no espaço da Atenção Primária à Saúde em Caicó (RN, Brasil). Método Trata-se de um estudo de prevalência de abordagem quantitativa com amostra final de 295 pessoas idosas. Resultados A prevalência de polifarmácia foi de 22%. A maioria dos participantes tinha entre 60 e 79 anos (76%), cor parda (50,5%), era casada (43,1%), ensino fundamental incompleto (60,3%) e renda entre um e três salários-mínimos (74,2%). Os fármacos mais utilizados foram os bloqueadores dos receptores de angiotensina (26,1%), as estatinas (20,3%) e os diuréticos tiazídicos (19,3%). O modelo de regressão logística multivariada mostrou que a polifarmácia se associa com diabetes mellitus, hipertensão arterial sistêmica, transtorno de ansiedade generalizada, gastrite, insuficiência cardíaca, doença arterial coronariana e idade acima de 80 anos. Conclusão A polifarmácia é uma condição de alta prevalência, fortemente associada ao aumento da idade, do tipo e do número de comorbidades. A problemática aponta para a necessidade de fortalecer ações e políticas de promoção da saúde, educação profissional permanente, fortalecimento do trabalho em equipe e prestação de cuidado longitudinal e em rede, em vista do risco iatrogênico do uso de muitos medicamentos por parte dos idosos.

Abstract Objective To investigate the prevalence of polypharmacy and its associated factors in the Primary Care setting of Caicó city (Rio Grande do Norte state, Brazil). Method A quantitative prevalence study of 295 older adults was conducted. Results The prevalence of polypharmacy was 22%. Participants were predominantly aged 60-79 years (76%), brown (50.5%), married (43.1%), educated to primary (incomplete) level (60.3%) and had an income of 1-3 minimum wages (74.2%). The most used medications were angiotensin-receptor blockers (26.1%), statins (20.3%) and thiazide diuretics (19.3%). The multivariate logistic regression model showed that polypharmacy was associated with diabetes mellitus, systemic arterial hypertension, generalized anxiety disorder, gastritis, heart failure, coronary artery disease and age >80 years. Conclusion Polypharmacy prevalence was high and strongly associated with advanced age and number and type of comorbidity. These results highlight the need for greater health promotion actions and policies, continuous professional education, enhanced team work and longitudinal systemic care provision to address the iatrogenic risk of use of multiple medications by older adults.

ABSTRACT

Resumen Introducción: El objetivo del trabajo fue determinar prevalencia de pluripatología y polifarmacia entre in ternados en salas de clínica médica de un hospital de agudos, sus características sociodemográficas y clínicas. Métodos: estudio observacional, prospectivo, longitu dinal, descriptivo y analítico. Se incluyeron los pacientes internados en clínica médica del Hospital Tornú entre mayo y septiembre, 2019 mediante muestreo consecuti vo. Se relevaron datos de las historias clínicas. Se evaluó dependencia funcional y pronóstico mediante índices Barthel, Charlson y score PROFUND. Resultados: Se registraron 170 pacientes (58% mascu linos). La edad de mujeres fue significativamente mayor (mediana 79 años; p= 0.002). Prevalencia de pluripatolo gía 32%; polifarmacia 38%; hipertensión 48%; diabetes 27%; deterioro cognitivo 15%; insuficiencia cardíaca 14%; accidente cerebrovascular 12%; anemia 24%; enfermedad renal crónica 10%. Reingresos 10% (94% con reinterna ción precoz; 94% con motivo de reingreso relacionado con internación previa). Mortalidad general: 12%. Los pacientes pluripatológicos presentaron edad elevada (78% > 65 años), mayor frecuencia de polifarmacia (p < 0.0001) y de dependencia (p = 0.001). La mortalidad en pluripatológicos (22%) fue mayor que en el resto (p = 0.0095) y presentaron valores más elevados índice de Charlson y score PROFUND (p < 0.0001). No hubo diferencias significativas en estadía hospitalaria ni en reinternaciones. Conclusiones: La presencia de pacientes con pluri patología se presenta como una realidad cotidiana en nuestros servicios de internación. Este estudio revela la importancia de la consideración de este tipo de pa cientes en el ámbito público debido a su frecuencia y características, demandas sanitarias y costes.

Abstract Introduction: The purpose of this study was to de termine the prevalence of pluripathology and polyphar macy among hospitalized patients in internal medicine wards at an acute care hospital, including their socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Methods: Observational, prospective, longitudinal, descriptive and analytical study. All patients hospital ized in the internal medicine ward at Hospital Tornú from May to September 2019 were included through consecutive sampling. Data from medical records were collected. Functional dependency and prognosis were assessed using the Barthel, Charlson and PROFUND Indexes. Results: 170 patients (58% male) were registered. Wom en were significantly older. Pluripathology prevalence: 32%; polypharmacy 38%; high BP: 48%; diabetes: 27%; cognitive impairment 15%; heart failure: 14%; stroke: 12%; anemia: 24%; CKD 10%. Total readmissions 10% (94% with early readmissions; 94% with readmissions related to a previous hospitalization). Global Mortality: 12%. Patients with pluripathology were elderly (78% > 65 years old) with a higher polypharmacy frequency (p < 0.0001) and functional dependence (p = 0.001). Mortality in patients with pluripathology (22%) was higher than in others (p = 0.0095) with higher Charlson and PROFUND scores (p < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in terms of hospital stay or readmissions. Conclusions: Pluripathological patients are common in our inpatient hospital department. This study reveals the importance of considering this type of patients in public hospitals due to its frequency, characteristics and healthcare utilization and costs.

ABSTRACT

Prescription patterns play a critical role in healthcare delivery, affecting the efficacy of medication therapy and resource utilization. Rational prescribing practices are essential for safe and effective healthcare, necessitating comprehensive prescriptions containing medication details, prescriber information, and patient instructions. This review explores prescription completeness and rationality, utilizing WHO prescribing indicators and other completeness metrics, across Indian healthcare facilities. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar for original research articles published between 2013 and 2023, focusing on WHO-recommended prescribing indicators and completeness criteria. Inclusion criteria covered articles in English, spanning primary, secondary, or tertiary care settings. Data from selected articles were extracted and analysed. Data were synthesized from sixty-seven studies, depicting various prescribing practices. The assessment encompassed prescribing, patient care, and facility indicators. Findings highlighted challenges such as illegible prescriptions, incomplete details, polypharmacy, brand name dominance, and inappropriate antibiotic use. Despite WHO recommendations, generic prescribing was limited. This review reiterates the need for interventions to enhance prescription quality, patient safety, and cost-effectiveness. Recommendations include adopting electronic prescribing systems, standardizing prescription formats, conducting regular prescription audits, implementing educational programs, promoting generic drug use, and adhering to essential medicines lists. These multifaceted strategies can improve prescribing practices and ultimately contribute to enhanced healthcare outcomes in India.

ABSTRACT

Fundamento: el abandono en la vejez es un condicionante de muchos trastornos de salud y constituye en mayor medida una condición de gran incidencia a nivel mundial. Objetivo: comparar los síndromes geriátricos y el abandono en pacientes adultos mayores. Métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal, descriptivo, analítico y correlacional, en la Unidad de Medicina Familiar No. 33 del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social de Tabasco. La muestra se conformó con 203 pacientes de 60 años y más, que acudieron a consulta de Medicina Familiar y Atención Médica Continua. Se aplicaron 3 instrumentos: la escala de Pfeiffer, el International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short-Form, la Escala de Percepción de Abandono del Adulto Mayor y se interrogó sobre el consumo de medicamentos prescritos y automedicados. Resultados: existió relación entre los síndromes geriátricos y el abandono, como se comprobó en la correlación entre las variables analizadas. El deterioro cognitivo leve, moderado y severo, se encontró en bajas proporciones. El 40,7 % de los pacientes aceptó tener incontinencia urinaria. La presencia de polifarmacia se encontró en altas proporciones. Conclusiones: los síndromes geriátricos presentes en el estudio fueron: deterioro cognitivo, polifarmacia e incontinencia urinaria, más la presencia de ser soltero, viudo o divorciado muestran una relación significativa para sufrir abandono.

Foundation: abandonment in old age is a condition of many health disorders and is, to a greater extent, a condition of high incidence worldwide. Objective: to compare geriatric syndromes and abandonment in older adult patients. Methods: a cross-sectional, descriptive, analytical and correlational study was carried out in the Family Medicine Unit No. 33 of the Mexican Social Security Institute of Tabasco. The sample was made up of 203 patients aged 60 and over, who attended Family Medicine and Continuing Medical Care consultations. Three instruments were applied: the Pfeiffer scale, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short-Form, the Perception of Abandonment Scale for the Elderly, and questions were asked about the consumption of prescribed and self-medicated medications. Results: there is a relationship between geriatric syndromes and abandonment, as verified in the correlation between the variables analyzed. Mild, moderate and severe cognitive impairment was found in low proportions. 40.7 % of the patients accepted having urinary incontinence. The presence of polypharmacy was found in high proportions. Conclusions: the geriatric syndromes present in the study such as: cognitive impairment, polypharmacy and urinary incontinence, plus the presence of being single, widowed or divorced show a significant relationship to suffering abandonment.

ABSTRACT

Introducción: La adherencia al tratamiento farmacológico favorece la supresión viral y reduce la resistencia a la terapia antirretroviral de gran actividad a largo plazo. Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre los aspectos farmacológicos y la adherencia al tratamiento antirretroviral de una IPS colombiana. Metodología: Estudio analítico transversal en pacientes con diagnóstico de VIH en tratamiento antirretroviral entre los años 2012 a 2020. Se utilizó un modelo de regresión logística binaria múltiple con fines explicativos. Resultados: Se analizaron 9835 pacientes donde la proporción de adherencia fue de 90 % y en el modelo ajustado se evaluó su relación con los antecedentes de no adherencia (ORa:0,52 IC95 °/o:0,40-0,66), grupo farmacológico (2 ITIAN + 1 IP u otro) (ORa:1,22 IC95 %:0,99-1,76), dos tomas al día (ORa:1,02 IC95 %:0,74-1,40), unidades al día (≥ 3) (ORa:0,69 IC95 %:0,47-1,02), reacciones adversas a medicamentos (ORa:0,56 IC95 °%:0,40-0,78), polimedicación (ORa:1,36 IC95 %:1,00-1,85), tiempo TAR (1 a 2 años) (ORa:1,63 IC95 %:1,27-2,09),tiempo TAR (6 a 12 meses) (ORa:1,66 IC95 %:1,27-2,18), tiempo TAR (<6 meses) (ORa:1,36 IC95 %:1,03-1,78), tasa de reclamación de los medicamentos (ORa:0,42 IC95 %:0,32-0,55) y antecedentes PRUM (ORa:0,11 IC95 %:0,09-0,14). Discusión: La proporción de adherencia obtenida es superior a lo descrito para otros países (entre 60-77 %); sin embargo se encuentra que los hallazgos correspondientes al efecto de las variables farmacológicas analizadas son acordes a lo descrito en estudios previos en el tema Conclusión: Los antecedentes de no adherencia, reacciones adversas, tasa de reclamación de los medicamentos y antecedentes de problemas relacionados con el uso de medicamentos son aspectos que reducen la probabilidad de adherencia; mientras que el mayor tiempo de uso del tratamiento aumenta la misma.

Introduction: Adherence to drug treatment promotes viral suppression and reduces long-term resistance to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Objective: To determine the relationship between the pharmacological aspects and adherence to antiretroviral treatment in a Colombian IPS. Methodology: Cross-sectional analytical study in patients with HIV on antiretroviral treatment between 2012 and 2020. A multiple binary logistic regression model was used for explanatory purposes. Results: A total of 9,835 patients were analyzed where the proportion of adherence was 90 % and in the adjusted model its relationship with history of non-adherence was assessed (ORa: 0,52 95 % CI: 0,40-0,66), pharmacological group (2 NRTI + 1 PI or other) (ORa: 1,22 95 % CI: 0,99-1,76), two doses per day (ORa: 1,02 95 % CI: 0,74-1,40), units per day (≥ 3 ) (ORa: 0,69 95 % CI: 0,47-1,02), adverse drug reactions (ORa: 0,56 95 % CI: 0,40-0,78), polypharmacy (ORa: 1,36 95 % CI : 1,00-1,85), ART time (1 to 2 years) (ORa: 1,63 95 % CI: 1,27-2,09), ART time (6 to 12 months) (ORa: 1,66 95 % CI: 1,27-2,18), ART time (<6 months) (ORa: 1,36 95 % CI: 1,03-1,78), inconsistency in the claim (ORa: 0,42 95 % CI: 0,32-0,55) and PRUM history (ORa: 0,11 95 % CI: 0,09-0,14). Discussion: The proportion of adherence obtained is higher than that described for other countries (between 60-77 %); however, the findings corresponding to the effect of the pharmacological variables analysed are in line with those described in previous studies on the subject. Conclusion: The history of non-adherence, adverse reactions, inconsistencies in the claim fill history and problems related to the use of medications are aspects that reduce the probability of adherence. While the longer time of use of the treatment increases adherence.

ABSTRACT

Objetivo: identificar o perfil medicamentoso e a frequência de polifarmácia em idosos cadastrados e que fazem acompanhamento em uma unidade básica de saúde. Método: estudo observacional e retrospectivo, realizado em uma unidade básica de saúde de um município do Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais. Foi realizada amostragem aleatória e estratificada para coleta de dados de prontuários físicos e eletrônicos de idosos atendidos nos anos de 2019 e 2020, analisados por meio de estatística descritiva. Resultados: entre 448 prontuários foram analisados, porém somente 208 (46,4%) foram válidos. Os medicamentos mais prescritos foram losartana (n=72; 34,6%), sinvastatina (n=60; 28,8%) e metformina (n=51; 24,5%). Observou-se 24,0% de frequência de polifarmácia (n=51), maior frequência de mulheres (n=42; 30,2%) e com significativa associação com diabetes mellitus (p=0,034). Conclusão: a polifarmárcia foi detectada, mais presente nas mulheres, sendo que medicamentos mais utilizados foram relacionados à hipertensão arterial, dislipidemias e diabetes mellitus. Destaca-se a incompletude de informações nos prontuários analisados(AU)

Objective: to identify the medication profile and frequency of polypharmacy in registered elderly people who are followed up at a primary care unit. Method: observational and retrospective study, carried out in a primary care unit in a municipality in Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais. Random and stratified sampling was carried out to collect data from the physical and electronic medical records of the elderly assisted in the years 2019 and 2020, analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: among 448 medical records analyzed, 208 (46.4%) were considered valid for inclusion in the study. The most prescribed drugs were losartan (n=72; 34.6%), simvastatin (n=60; 28.8%) and metformin (n=51; 24.5%). There was a 24.0% frequency of polypharmacy (n=51), a higher frequency of wome (n=42; 30.2%) and with a significant association with diabetes mellitus (p=0.034). Conclusion: polypharmacy was detected, more present in women, and the most used drugs were related to arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus. The incompleteness of information in the analyzed medical records stands out. Descriptors: Health of the Elderly; Aged; Primary Health Care; Polypharmacy(AU)

Objetivo: identificar el perfil farmacológico y frecuencia de polifarmacia en ancianos registrados en seguimiento en una unidad básica de salud. Método: estudio observacional y retrospectivo, realizado en una unidad básica de salud de un municipio del Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais. Se realizó un muestreo aleatorio y estratificado para recolectar datos de las historias clínicas físicas y electrónicas de los ancianos atendidos en los años 2019 y 2020, analizados mediante estadística descriptiva. Resultados: de 448 historias clínicas analizadas, 208 (46,4%) fueron consideradas válidas para su inclusión en el estudio. Los fármacos más prescritos fueron Losartán (n=72; 34,6%), Simvastatina (n=60; 28,8%) y Metformina (n=51; 24,5%). La frecuencia de polifarmacia estuvo en el 24,0% (n=51), mayor frecuencia de mujeres (n=42; 30,2%) y con asociación significativa con diabetes mellitus (p=0,034). Conclusión: se detectó la polifarmacia, más presente en las mujeres; los fármacos más utilizados estuvieron relacionados con hipertensión arterial, dislipidemia y diabetes mellitus. Se destaca la incompletitud de la información en las historias clínicas analizadas(AU)

ABSTRACT

Background: Despite the notable rise in the elderly population in Mexico, it is imperative to acknowledge and address geriatric syndromes. The employment of geriatric assessment is essential, as it offers a comprehensive evaluation of elderly patients. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was carried out on hospitalized patients over the age of 65, who underwent geriatric assessment performed by a multidisciplinary team comprising of a geriatrician, nurse, nutritionist, and internist. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency distribution, percentage, mean, median, and standard deviation of geriatric syndromes were obtained. Results: Polypharmacy was identified as the primary geriatric syndrome, with a higher prevalence among males (54.3%), followed by functional impairment, with a slightly higher occurrence in males (52.5%). Among the identified geriatric syndromes, frailty, anxiety, pressure ulcers, incontinence, abuse, and caregiver collapse showed no gender preference. The majority of patients were at risk of malnutrition, as determined by the mini nutritional assessment. Conclusions: The geriatric assessment is a valuable tool in detecting diseases in elderly patients and facilitating alterations to their treatment plans, particularly during hospitalization. However, accurate assessment of this population requires a multidisciplinary team, as it helps prevent geriatric syndromes such as polypharmacy, functional impairment, and malnutrition, which can adversely affect the elderly's quality of life.