Hypertension, both treated and untreated, is associated with a modest increased risk for cancer incidence and mortality. Similar risks in treated and untreated hypertension suggest that the increased cancer risk is not explained by the use of antihypertensive treatment.
Objective
To evaluate the need for and the feasibility of a pharmacist‐led physician‐supported deprescribing model.
Methods
All patients aged ≥65 years, with polypharmacy, admitted to the acute general medical unit (GMU) of an Australian tertiary hospital over a 6‐week period were prospectively evaluated for deprescribing by team pharmacists. Clinical decision‐making was supported by physicians.
Results
One hundred and twenty‐nine patients met inclusion criteria, and 58 (45%) were identified for deprescribing. Ninety‐two (7.2%) deprescribing instances were identified of 1277 medications prescribed. Of these, 46 (50%) were successfully deprescribed during inpatient admission in 35 (60%) patients. The most prevalent rationale for deprescribing was “harm outweighing benefits.” Outpatient deprescribing was planned in 16 (17%) of instances, and 39 (42%) would require outpatient follow‐up to ensure adherence to recommendations and safety. No predictors for deprescribing were identified on univariate analyses.
Conclusions
A pharmacist‐led physician‐supported deprescribing model is feasible in GMU patients who have polypharmacy.
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