Adverse drug effects and poly pharmacy

• How are adverse drug effects investigated?


  Drug history incl OTC and borrowed meds

  Consider symptoms could be a side effect of a drug
• How can adverse drug effects be managed conservatively?


  Review meds regularly

  Swap to non-pharm treatment

  Deprescribe
• What is adverse drug effects?


  Use of 5+ meds

  May be appropriate or inappropriate

  can lead to issues
• Why are adverse drug effects bad?


  Inc fall risk and A&E attendance

  Reduced compliance and adherence to meds

  Prolonged admission time
• Which drugs are most likely to cause hospital admissions due to adverse drug effects?


  Antiplatelets

  Diuretics

  Anticoags

  NSAIDs
• What are some drug types associated with anticholinergic activity?


  Antidepressants

  Antipsychotics

  Antiemetics

  Sedatives

  Antiallergics

  H2 receptor blockers

  Antiparkinson