Patients who are middle-aged and older, as well as those who face major medical issues, often take upward of five medications. Roughly 40 percent of patients in their 60s take five or more prescriptions, according to the report. However, many of these drugs may be unnecessary or even cause harm, especially as the body ages and responds to drugs differently.
In response to overly medicated patients, physicians are now working to deprescribe adults through comprehensive medication reviews, screening programs and reduction plans, according to the report. The Wall Street Journal names two resources in particular to aid physicians in deprescribing patients.
- Deprescribing.org
This website, maintained by the Canadian Deprescribing Network, is used by U.S. and Canadian physicians as a resource to guide medication decisions, according to the report. - HealthinAging.org
This site contains nonprescription treatment options, suggested alternative medications and an updated listing of the American Geriatrics Society’s Beers Criteria, lists of drugs and classes of medications that may be dangerous for older adults.
Read the full story here.
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