Polypharmacy, the Elderly, and Deprescribing.

The risks of polypharmacy are heightened in the elderly because of a number of factors including age-related physiologic changes and the presence of comorbid conditions. Polypharmacy is a strong predictor of potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use in the elderly in which harm may outweigh potential benefits. Despite available lists and criteria of PIMs from expert panels regarding inappropriate use of medications for older adults, prescribing of PIMs continues to be reported. Empowering clinicians with evidence-based guidance to safely and effectively discontinue PIMs by "deprescribing" is the subject of current research. Pharmacists can play an important role as part of the circle of care for the elderly. The acronym "MINDFUL" serves as a reminder of steps commonly used by pharmacists to assess appropriateness of medications and optimize health outcomes for their senior patients.