A growing number of older adults are showing interest in “deprescribing,” a process where people reduce or stop taking medications they no longer need or that may be causing harm.
A recent poll conducted by the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging revealed that 80% of adults aged 50 to 80 would consider stopping one or more prescription medications they’ve been taking for over a year, provided their healthcare provider said it was safe.
In fact, 26% of the participants said they had already stopped taking at least one prescription medication in the past two years.
Deprescribing offers several potential benefits, including fewer side effects, better overall health, and reduced healthcare costs.
However, it’s crucial for patients to consult their healthcare providers before making any changes to their medication routine.
The poll revealed a concerning trend: 35% of those who stopped taking a medication they’d been on for more than a year did so without consulting a health professional. This highlights the need for better communication between patients and providers about medication use and the risks and benefits of deprescribing.
The Role of Medication Reviews
Medication reviews can be a key step in the deprescribing process. These reviews allow healthcare providers to assess whether all prescribed medications are still necessary and ensure that none of them are causing harm or interacting negatively with each other.
Unfortunately, many older adults may not be aware that comprehensive medication reviews are available and often covered by Medicare and other insurance plans.
The poll found that 82% of adults aged 50 to 80 regularly take at least one prescription medication, with 28% believing they take too many.
Despite this, over 90% of those surveyed expect their healthcare provider to review their medication list annually, but studies suggest this doesn’t happen as often as it should. Regular medication reviews can lead to more personalized care, fewer unnecessary prescriptions, and a better quality of life.
Communicating with Your Healthcare Provider
Open communication is essential for safe and effective deprescribing. Patients should feel comfortable discussing their concerns about medications with their healthcare providers. At your next appointment, you can ask whether all your medications are still necessary and if any might be stopped or reduced.
Healthcare providers play a vital role in educating patients about the potential risks and benefits of their medications. They can help create a personalized plan to manage medication use, which might include gradually tapering off certain drugs to avoid withdrawal symptoms or other complications.
How to Stop Medications Safely
If you’re thinking about stopping a medication, it’s important to do so carefully and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Here are some tips to ensure the process is safe:
- Discuss Your Plans with Your Provider
Let your healthcare provider know you’re interested in stopping a medication. They can evaluate whether it’s safe and help you decide on the best approach. - Follow Instructions for Tapering Off
Some medications need to be reduced gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms or a rebound effect. Your provider will give you a plan tailored to your specific situation. - Monitor for Side Effects
Be aware of any changes in your symptoms as you stop the medication. Report any new or worsening issues to your provider right away. - Never Stop on Your Own
Abruptly stopping certain medications can be dangerous and lead to serious health problems. Always consult your provider before making changes to your treatment. - Keep Track of Your Health
Regularly monitor your symptoms and overall health during and after the deprescribing process. This helps ensure that stopping the medication is improving your well-being.
Improving Health Outcomes Through Deprescribing
Deprescribing can lead to significant improvements in health and quality of life for older adults. It’s a way to simplify treatment, reduce unnecessary medications, and minimize harmful side effects. However, it requires careful planning and collaboration between patients and their healthcare providers.
If you’re concerned about the number of medications you’re taking, don’t hesitate to bring it up with your doctor.
A medication review could be the first step toward a healthier, simpler regimen tailored to your needs. By working together, you and your provider can make informed decisions to support your overall health.
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