A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON GERIATRIC PRESCRIBING PATTERN AND MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

  Objectives: To identify potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) using Beers criteria 2015 and to recommend safer alternative medication for the above. To assess the medication adherence in geriatric patients and to categorize according to their adherence.Methods: This is prospective, interventional study. A total of 90 patients aged 65 years and above were involved in the study. Data were collected and recorded. The prescriptions were analyzed for appropriateness using updated Beers criteria 2015 and assess medication adherence using 8-item Morisky questionnaire.Results: Majority of the patients were in the age group of 65-74 years. Males (53%) showed predominance than females. The highest rate of (53%) polypharmacy was found in general medicine department than other departments. Out of 147 disease conditions observed, chronic renal failure (21.1%) was the most common condition. A total of 66 patients had comorbid conditions. Most frequently prescribed medications belonged to cardiovascular drugs (56; 14.62%). A total of 46 patients received PIMs; majority belonged to Category 1 - amitriptyline. Commonly prescribed medication in PIMs belonged to central nervous system medications (20%). Majority of patients were low adherent (51.11%) in which female patients showed preponderance in low adherence.Conclusion: Study showed prevalence of disease pattern, medication use, polypharmacy, PIMs, and medication adherence. It is important for pharmacists to stay updated and prescribers need to be educated and encouraged about Beers criteria for rational prescription for better pharmaceutical care and increased medication adherence