2024-07-12 10:00:25
We hear the term “sobriety” a lot these days, and the health field is no exception. Drug companies know half of patients over 65 take more than five drugs a day, so start campaign Promote “detoxification” for the elderly. Target? Promote proper medication use while limiting drug interactions and health insurance costs. Let’s take stock.
Geriatrics and Polypharmacy
do you know drug interactions More than 200,000 people are hospitalized in France every year, and regarding 10,000 people die prematurely? This shows the importance Make sure medicines are used correctly Consume them appropriately in the prescribed dosage and not for longer than the prescribed duration.
Otherwise, the medicine may have harmful health effects. If all the people might care Older adults are at increased risk, especially those with multiple medical conditions. It is estimated that Half of patients over 65 take more than five medications a day. However, beyond five drugs, the risk of adverse events increases significantly.
In addition, with age, the function of the digestive organs and the elimination of active ingredients by the kidneys and liver slow down, which leads to increased susceptibility to drug side effects and a potential impact on treatment effectiveness. Therefore, it is important for your treating physician to periodically reassess the current treatment, who may reduce certain doses or even discontinue certain medications if he judges that they are no longer needed.
To know! Do not stop any medication without your doctor’s advice!
Also Read – Treatment in the Elderly: Beware of Polypharmacy!
Use medications correctly
We cannot stress enough that drugs are not harmless products and must Make sure it is used correctly,this means:
Adhere to dosage and prescribed conditions of administration (number of tablets, doses, frequency of administration, duration of treatment). Tell your doctor regarding all current treatments. Never interrupt, suspend or delay ongoing treatment without medical advice. Report any events (e.g., hospitalization, infection, etc.) that may alter the effectiveness or tolerability of treatment to your doctor. If you suspect any adverse reactions related to treatment, tell your physician, pharmacist, or nurse practitioner. Periodic inspection Current treatment by your primary care physician. Store your medicine in the original box with instructions. If a specialty medication is substituted for a generic medication, write this on the generic medication box. When buying medicines without a prescription, ask your pharmacist for advice. Ask your doctor or pharmacist For any questions regarding taking your medication or experiencing unusual symptoms, please see – Medical Prescriptions: When the Pharmacist Adjusts the Box Quantity!
promotional activity
According to LEEM, a professional organization for pharmaceutical companies, “Our medicines are only truly effective when used correctly”. Therefore, as of June 4, pharmaceutical companies commit to: Carry out “drug detoxification” publicity activities. This year they are working with health professionals and the public to raise awareness of polypharmacy and drug issues. Promote correct medication use among the elderly. The plan includes awareness-raising activities and public information campaigns targeting health professionals. set objectives? Optimize prescriptions by reducing the number of treatments prescribed to older adults.
In addition, reducing overmedication has benefits for the environment and public spending. The LEEM campaign might therefore result in annual savings of up to 300 million euros in health insurance.
Building on the First Use of Medicines Right campaign, pharmaceutical companies have planned other actions in 2025 on the theme of combating antibiotic resistance and waste.
Also Read – Pharmacists speak out once morest inappropriate prescriptions for senior citizens
Déborah L., Pharm.D.
source
– Drug sobriety, companies are stepping up action on the correct use of drugs. www.leem.org. Date viewed: July 3, 2024.
– Medicamee. www.leem.org. Date viewed: July 3, 2024.
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#Prescription #Elderly #Medications #Alcohol #Abuse