Drug Related Problems in Older Patients: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Interventions

Drug related problems (DPRs) are significant concern in geriatric care, contributing to increased morbidity, hospitalizations and healthcare costs. This review comprehensively examines the prevalence of the drug related problems among older patients, with focus on key risk factors such as polypharmacy and comorbidities. Recent studies indicate that the significant proportion of older patients experienced drug related problems, with issues like non-adherence and drug-drug interactions being prevalent. Furthermore, the review highlights the essential role of clinical pharmacist in identifying and managing drug related problems through effective medication reviews and interdisciplinary collaboration. By addressing these problems, clinical pharmacists can enhance medication safety, optimize therapeutic outcomes, and ultimately improve the quality of care for older adults. Future research should focus on developing targeted interventions and fostering greater collaboration among healthcare providers to mitigate the risks associated with drug related problems