Geriatric patients

The elderly population is one of the most rapidly increasing populations in the world. Physiological alterations induced by the aging process make these individuals more susceptible to chronic diseases and, consequently, to increased drug utilization. The present study evaluated drug utilization pattern in geriatric medical out patients. A prospective, observational, cross sectional study was done among the geriatric patients attending the Outpatient Department of tertiary care Hospital. This study has shown the patterns of diseases prevalent in geriatric patients, drug use among them and also suggests that drugs to be avoided in elderly are among the most frequent inappropriately prescribed drugs. Prevalence of polypharmacy was high. This indicates that there is a need for multidisciplinary, multifaceted & multisector approach which may improve drug safety & adherence in the elderly. Drug utilization studies of this type may ultimately help in improving the quality of healthcare given to the geriatric patients.