Anti-cholinergic Medicines and Health Impacts in Malaysian Geriatrics
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: The Use of Medicines with Anti-cholinergic Properties and Their Health Impacts among Hospitalised Malaysian Geriatric Patients
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:
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Izyan A Wahab, Bakht Akbar, Zainol Akbar Zainal, Mohd Farizh Che Pa, Basariah Naina
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: The Use of Medicines with Anti-cholinergic Properties and Their Health Impacts among Hospitalised Malaysian Geriatric Patients
Year: 2019 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2019.26.2.9
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The use of medications with anti-cholinergic (Ach) properties poses significant health risks for elderly patients, including increased chances of falls, confusion, and extended hospital stays. This study focuses on Malaysian elderly patients—specifically those aged over 60 years—investigating how Ach medications affect their health outcomes during hospital admissions. Prior research has established that Ach medications are commonly prescribed to older adults; however, there is a lack of specific data regarding their impact on the Malaysian elderly population. This study aims to fill that gap by analyzing the prevalence of such medications and their correlations with adverse health events.
Impact of Anti-Cholinergic Medications on Elderly Health
The findings reveal that a notable 62% of the study's 145 participants received medications with Ach properties, which were associated with significantly higher risks of fall incidents, confusion, and longer lengths of hospital stay (LOS). Specifically, participants taking these medications had their odds for falls increased by 2.61 times, confusion by 3.60 times, and LOS by 4.83 times compared to those who did not receive such medications. The study also highlighted that the most commonly prescribed Ach medications were furosemide, ranitidine, and warfarin. The prevalence of these medications and their connection to ongoing health issues among elderly patients underscore the critical need for awareness regarding Ach medication use in clinical settings.
Conclusion
This study underscores the substantial impact of anti-cholinergic medication use on the health of Malaysian elderly patients, establishing clear associations with adverse outcomes such as falls, confusion, and prolonged hospitalizations. Given the high prevalence of Ach medications among the elderly, it is imperative for healthcare professionals to carefully evaluate their prescribing practices. Enhanced strategies for the safe management of Ach medication use, combined with increased public health education efforts targeting older patients and their caregivers, should be prioritized to mitigate the risks associated with these medications.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are the risks associated with anti-cholinergic medications in elderly patients?
Anti-cholinergic medications can significantly increase the risks of falls, confusion, and longer hospital stays in elderly patients, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes if not managed properly.
What was the main objective of the study conducted in Malaysia?
The study aimed to investigate the usage of anti-cholinergic medications among hospitalized elderly patients in Malaysia and their impact on fall risk, confusion, and length of stay in the hospital.
What methodology was used to gather data in the study?
The study utilized a cross-sectional design, collecting data from elderly patients admitted to geriatric and medical wards, using convenience sampling over a two-month period.
What were the findings regarding the use of anti-cholinergic medications?
The study found that 62% of elderly patients received medications with anti-cholinergic properties, leading to significant risks of falls, confusion, and longer hospital stays, emphasizing the need for careful prescription practices.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Anti-cholinergic Medicines and Health Impacts in Malaysian Geriatrics”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Medicine:
Medicine refers to substances used to treat, prevent, or diagnose illness. In the context of the study discussed, it addresses the potential risks associated with anti-cholinergic medications prescribed to the elderly. The implications highlight the importance of judicious prescribing, considering individual patient conditions, and monitoring for side effects.
2) Table:
The term table in this context likely refers to organized data presentation within the study, summarizing key findings. Tables help convey complex information clearly and concisely, facilitating easy comparison and analysis of various medications, their classified levels of anti-cholinergic properties, and associated risks of outcomes such as falls and confusion.
3) Study (Studying):
Study indicates a systematic investigation focused on a specific research question. The research presented aims to evaluate the implications of anti-cholinergic medication usage among elderly patients in a clinical setting. Findings from such studies contribute to clinical guidelines, informing healthcare professionals about better prescribing practices and patient safety.
4) Drug:
Drug refers to a substance that alters physiological functions and is used for therapeutic purposes. The study emphasizes awareness regarding the use of anti-cholinergic drugs in elderly patients, highlighting documented risks like falls, cognitive decline, and extended hospital stays, thereby advocating for thoughtful medication management.
5) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition with specific signs and symptoms. In this context, it underscores the relationship between prevalent conditions in elderly populations, like cardiovascular diseases and the consequent prescriptions of potentially harmful anti-cholinergic medicines, stressing the importance of balanced treatment approaches amidst comorbidities.
6) Activity:
Activity refers to the physiological functions and biological processes influenced by medications. It is critical to monitor activity changes in elderly patients taking anti-cholinergic drugs, as they can lead to adverse outcomes like delirium, falls, and confusion, thereby necessitating careful prescribing and patient monitoring strategies.
7) Rules:
Rules in this context likely refer to established clinical guidelines or protocols for medication management. The study suggests the need for adherence to appropriate prescribing rules to minimize the risk associated with anti-cholinergic medicines, particularly in vulnerable elderly patients, advocating for a structured approach to medication safety.
8) Thomas:
Thomas may refer to a researcher or an author cited in the study, contributing to the discourse surrounding anti-cholinergic drug implications. Recognition of contributors emphasizes the collaborative nature of medical research, which builds a foundation of evidence to inform clinical practice and policy regarding elderly patient care.
9) Beta:
Beta typically refers to beta-blockers, a class of medications commonly prescribed for heart-related conditions. Although they do not have significant anti-cholinergic effects, their co-prescribing with anti-cholinergic medications raises concerns about cumulative risks in elderly populations, highlighting the necessity for careful medication reviews and safer alternatives.
10) Bell:
Bell most likely refers to an author or researcher contributing to the literature discussed in the study. It represents the interconnectedness of research, where findings from various experts can inform clinical practices. Contributions from various authors enrich the understanding of anti-cholinergic medications and their effects in geriatrics.
11) Depression:
Depression is a significant mental health concern, particularly in the elderly. The relationship between depression and anti-cholinergic medications is crucial, as such treatments may exacerbate cognitive decline and fall risk. Understanding this relationship can help healthcare providers formulate holistic treatment plans that prioritize mental health and medication safety.
12) Calculation:
Calculation refers to the quantitative methods used in the study to assess data, including sample sizes, odds ratios, and statistical significance. Precise calculations are fundamental in producing valid results and conclusions in research, enabling the identification of meaningful relationships between anti-cholinergic medication use and adverse outcomes.
13) Discussion:
Discussion is a crucial section in research papers where authors interpret findings, compare results with prior studies, and explore implications for practice. In this study, the discussion addresses the impact of anti-cholinergic medications on elderly patients, emphasizing the need for safer prescribing practices and better awareness among healthcare providers.
14) Evolution:
Evolution reflects the gradual development and improvement of medical knowledge and practices over time. In the context of this study, it suggests that understanding and managing anti-cholinergic medication risks in elderly patients will continue to evolve as new evidence emerges, guiding better healthcare decisions and enhancing patient safety.
15) Landi (Lamdi):
Landi is likely a contributing author whose previous works or findings are referenced in this study. The inclusion of various researchers illustrates the broader collaborative effort in addressing the issues associated with anti-cholinergic medication use, enhancing the credibility and depth of the research presented.
16) Jacob:
Jacob might refer to a researcher or cited author in the study concerning the impacts of medication. Recognizing various contributors highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing medical research and improving treatment protocols for specific patient populations, such as the elderly.
17) Sara (Shara):
Sara could refer to an author or researcher involved in relevant studies concerning therapies applied in geriatrics. Her contributions signify the importance of diverse backgrounds in understanding the multifaceted issues surrounding medication effects, particularly regarding polypharmacy and anti-cholinergic burden in elderly individuals.
18) Tree:
Tree could symbolize a broader concept of healthcare connections or implications of medication use in populations. The metaphor of a tree might suggest interconnected branches representing various health outcomes influenced by medication, guiding healthcare professionals toward a more holistic understanding of patient care regarding medication safety and efficacy.
19) Sign:
Sign refers to indicators or symptoms that may point to underlying health issues or reactions to medications. In the study, identifying signs related to anti-cholinergic medication use helps clinicians recognize potential adverse reactions early. Recognizing these signs is vital for timely interventions and optimizing elderly patient care.
20) Education:
Education is essential for both healthcare providers and patients to understand the implications of anti-cholinergic medications. Patient education can empower patients to engage in their care actively and make informed decisions, whereas provider education ensures awareness of prescribing guidelines, ultimately promoting safer medication practices.
21) Account:
Account refers to considerations that must be taken into account regarding patient health and medication management. This includes evaluating patient histories, potential drug interactions, and the comprehensive understanding of anti-cholinergic burden, ensuring individualized care approaches to safeguard elderly patients against adverse outcomes.
22) Mineral:
Mineral generally refers to important nutrients crucial for bodily functions, including bone health. This concept may link to the study's subject, as elderly patients at risk of falls may also have considerations regarding mineral supplementation, such as calcium or vitamin D, to mitigate osteoporosis-related complications.
23) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world. The highlighted research exemplifies the application of scientific methods in addressing health issues, illustrating the ongoing quest to improve safety and outcomes for elderly patients through structured research and evidence-based practices.
24) Edema (Oedema):
Oedema refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid in tissues, often requiring the use of diuretics like furosemide. In elderly patients, careful monitoring of oedema and related medication appears paramount to mitigate associated risks like falls, reinforcing the need for tailored treatment approaches minimizing adverse effects.
25) Reason:
Reason indicates the rationale behind medication prescribing decisions. Understanding the reasons for prescribing anti-cholinergic medications to elderly patients is crucial for evaluating potential risks and benefits. This can lead to improved prescribing practices, enhancing patient outcomes through informed clinical decision-making.
26) Indian:
Indian may refer to the demographic background of patients within the study, which may be relevant in understanding the population-specific prevalence and effects of anti-cholinergic medications. Cultural contexts can inform medication practices and patient education needs, emphasizing the importance of tailored healthcare approaches.
27) Post:
Post typically refers to periods following an event, such as medication administration or hospital admission. Understanding post-medication outcomes in elderly patients, particularly regarding anti-cholinergic drugs, is critical for identifying adverse effects, guiding follow-ups, and implementing necessary adjustments to enhance patient care.
28) Male:
Male indicates the gender demographic of study participants, important for analyzing medication effects since responses may differ between genders. Recognizing potential gender-related differences emphasizes the importance of tailoring treatments and monitoring protocols specifically for male elderly patients regarding the use of anti-cholinergic medications.
Other Health Sciences Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Anti-cholinergic Medicines and Health Impacts in Malaysian Geriatrics’. Further sources in the context of Health Sciences might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
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