Psychotropic Deprescribing in the Geriatric Population: A Review

Abstract

Background: Potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) is defined as the usage of a medication for which the risks surpass the perceived benefits, particularly when more efficient alternatives exist. The focus has now shifted from prescribing to deprescribing, especially with one aging. Methods: Based on the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA) criteria, we performed a search of articles published in Medline and google scholar databases between 2008 and 2022 using terms such as Deprescribing, Psychogeriatric patients, polypharmacy, psychotropic drugs, benzodiazepines, and potentially inappropriate medication (PIM). The initial search yielded 3058 articles. After review, 53 articles were included for discussion. Discussion: Polypharmacy and multimorbidity are multifaceted interconnected concepts in geriatric care that call for timely intervention and interdisciplinary management across each healthcare and social setting. And although the literature and studies on the benefits are variable, deprescribing appears to be overall efficacious. Conclusion: Further research on the efficacy of strategies and existing guidelines in lowering PIMs in geriatric psychiatry patients is warranted. The purpose of this review is to give an outline of the current evidence to inform effective methods for deprescribing PIMs for older persons, with an emphasis on strategies clinicians can use to address challenges to these approaches