Optimization of Drug Prescription and Medication Management in Older Adults with Cardiovascular Disease

Drugs Aging. 2017 Nov;34(11):803-810. doi: 10.1007/s40266-017-0494-2.

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease increases incrementally with age and elderly patients concomitantly sustain multimorbidities, with resultant prescription of multiple medications. Despite conforming with disease-specific cardiovascular clinical practice guidelines, this polypharmacy predisposes many elderly individuals with cardiovascular disease to adverse drug events and non-adherence. Patient-centered care requires that the clinician explore with each patient his or her goals of care and that this shared decision-making constitutes the basis for optimization of medication management. This approach to aligning therapies with patient preferences is likely to promote patient satisfaction, to limit morbidity, and to favorably affect healthcare costs.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Decision Making
  • Drug Interactions
  • Drug Prescriptions / standards*
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Medication Adherence
  • Medication Therapy Management / organization & administration*
  • Medication Therapy Management / standards
  • Patient Preference
  • Patient-Centered Care
  • Polypharmacy