What types of inappropriate prescribing predict adverse drug reactions in older adults?

Ann Pharmacother. 2010 Jun;44(6):1110-1. doi: 10.1345/aph.1P182. Epub 2010 May 12.

Abstract

Adverse drug events happen all too often in older adults, but we still do not have a clear understanding of potentially modifiable risk factors, with the exception of polypharmacy. This paper critiques the article in this issue of The Annals entitled, "Inappropriate Prescribing Predicts Adverse Drug Events in Older Adults." A validated measure for self-reported adverse drug events was used, along with a modified measure for inappropriate prescribing that we developed nearly 2 decades ago (ie, Medication Appropriateness Index). Besides discussing the strengths and weaknesses of this article, we also recommend future research directions in this area.

Publication types

  • Comment
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Drug Prescriptions / classification*
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions* / classification
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions* / epidemiology
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions* / etiology
  • Humans
  • Medication Errors / classification
  • Medication Errors / trends
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations / classification
  • Polypharmacy
  • Predictive Value of Tests

Substances

  • Pharmaceutical Preparations