Ophthalmic drugs as part of polypharmacy in nursing home residents with glaucoma

Source: Drugs and Aging Area: Evidence > Medicines Management > References Background: Glaucoma comprises age-related neurodegenerative diseases of retinal ganglion cells, the worldwide prevalence of which is increasing.  Local pharmacotherapy is the primary treatment option, especially in the elderly.  But this therapeutic approach may include risks for adverse drug effects and drug-drug interactions, of particular importance in frail nursing home resident populations. Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate anti-glaucoma pharmacotherapy in nursing home residents in the context of multi-morbidity and related systemic co-medication. Methods: Data for 8685 nursing home residents with 88,695 drug prescriptions were analysed according to diagnosis and local or systemic pharmacotherapy.  Data were provided in anonymous form by a German public health insurance company. Results: The study cohort was characterised by a mean age of 83.6 +/- 7.3 years (range: 65-106 years); 21% of the nursing home residents were at ...
Source: NeLM - Care of Older People - Category: Geriatrics Source Type: news