2668 Polypharmacy in the elderly: are addressing the medication burden?

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Abstract Introduction Polypharmacy represents a significant challenge in the vulnerable elderly population, where concurrent use of multiple medications increases the risk of interactions and adverse reactions, often precipitating acute events and complicated hospital stays. This necessitates thorough medication reviews to mitigate these risks; a hospital admission allows for such opportunities. Methods This project aimed to evaluate and address the medication burden among elderly patients, following WHO’s Global Patient Safety Challenge: Medication Without Harm. 50 patient’s medications were reviewed on a elderly care ward over the space of 3 months. A ward pharmacist and a senior member of the medical team critically evaluated inpatient charts on a twice weekly basis. Any changes made to the medication regimens were documented; additionally, the general practitioner was informed of any changes. Results Initial data indicated that 66% of patients were on five or more medications, with a high incidence of falls and a notable anticholinergic burden. On review of the 50 patients a total number of 36 drugs were de-prescribed, 38.9% were inappropriate anti-hypertensives, 13.8% vitamins among others. Conclusions This project has been an enlightening endeavour, teaching us the critical nature of addressing polypharmacy. We have learned that interdisciplinary collaboration, regular medication reviews, and patient education are key to managing this complexity. To ensure long-term sustainability, we plan to institutionalise pharmacy board rounds and implement mandatory medication reviews. We aim to work closely with primary care to maintain continuity post-discharge. These efforts are expected to foster a culture of mindful prescribing and medication safety.

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