- Medication Review and Optimization:
- Conduct regular medication reviews to assess the appropriateness, safety, and efficacy of each medication in the patient’s regimen.
- Collaborate with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to identify opportunities for deprescribing and streamline medication regimens.
- Home Medicines Reviews (HMRs)
- Residential Medication Management Reviews (RMMRs)
- Deprescribing Programs:
- Participate in deprescribing programs and initiatives aimed at reducing unnecessary or inappropriate medications, particularly in elderly patients.
- Use evidence-based deprescribing guidelines and tools to guide decision-making, such as the
- Beers Criteria
- STOPP/START criteria
- Simplify Regimens:
- Consolidate medications where possible by switching to combination pills or extended-release formulations.
- Minimize the number of daily doses by adjusting dosing schedules.
- Consider Alternatives:
- Explore non-pharmacological interventions or lifestyle modifications as alternatives to medications where appropriate.
- Investigate whether non-prescription treatments or supplements could replace some medications.
- Prioritize Medications:
- Identify and prioritize essential medications based on the patient’s health conditions and goals of care.
- Focus on managing high-priority conditions while considering the necessity of medications for less critical conditions.
- Use Technology:
- Utilize pill organizers, medication reminder apps, or blister packs to help patients organize and manage their medications effectively.
- Explore telemedicine options for medication management and follow-up appointments to enhance convenience and accessibility.
- Shared Decision Making:
- Involve patients and caregivers in discussions about medication management, including the potential for reducing pill burden.
- Educate patients about the importance of adherence to essential medications while addressing concerns about polypharmacy.
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