Team Approach to Polypharmacy Evaluation and Reduction

Launched by MCMASTER UNIVERSITY · Oct 21, 2016

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called the "Team Approach to Polypharmacy Evaluation and Reduction," is studying how reducing the number of medications taken by older adults can improve their health. Many seniors, especially those aged 70 and older, often take five or more medications, which can sometimes lead to negative effects on their health. This trial will explore a program designed to help these individuals lower their medication doses or stop taking some medications altogether, based on their personal preferences and health needs.

To participate in the study, you must be 70 years or older, currently taking five or more long-term medications, and have a family doctor who will be involved in the process. Participants will receive a personalized review of their medications, which includes discussions with both a pharmacist and their doctor. The goal is to carefully reduce medication use while monitoring how it affects their health. Throughout the study, researchers will also gather feedback from participants to understand their experiences. This research hopes to find out if this approach can be used in regular healthcare for older adults to help improve their quality of life.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Aged 70 years of age or older
• • Patient must have a family doctor
• • Participating family doctor as most responsible provider
• • Currently taking more 5 or more long-term medications
• • Have not had a recent (past 12 months) comprehensive medication review
• • Patient willing to try discontinuation
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • English language or cognitive skills inadequate to understand and respond to rating scales
• • Terminal illness or other circumstance precluding 6 month study period