Inappropriate Prescription of Proton Pump Inhibitors in a Community Dwelling Older Adults - Abstract
Background: Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are widely used for the treatment gastrointestinal diseases. The use of PPI is not without risk as it is associated with many conditions such as osteoporosis or hypomagnesemia. The objective of this study was to assess PPI prescriptions in an ambulatory setting.
Methods: Older adults presenting at the emergency department of a teaching hospital were prospectively assessed for use of a PPI at home. On the basis of a patient interview and a review of their medical record, the appropriateness of PPI prescription was evaluated according to the current guidelines in the province of Quebec.
Results: During the study period, 2417 patients were screened and 536 older adults were included in the study. Using the PPI practice guideline, 184 patients (34.3%) were prescribed a PPI for an inappropriate indication.
Conclusion: In conclusion, inappropriate PPI prescription remains an important issue in the older population since it exposes may older adults to a risk of adverse reaction without a proper indication. It is therefore of the utmost importance to reassess the indication of PPI every time it is prescribed.