Introduction

The hospital-based polypharmacy management program (PMP) was implemented in South to address polypharmacy-related concerns among older adults. In this study, we aimed to assess the initial outcomes of the program and identify factors associated with medication-related problems (MRPs) that led to prescription modifications.

Methods

We analyzed data from 1,740 PMP participants in 2021. Medication review records, intervention outcome records, and patient demographics were examined. MRPs were identified, classified, and documented alongside prescription modifications. To determine factors influencing prescription changes, we conducted multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Among the study population, 73.5% (1,279 patients) had at least one MRP, with total of 4,631 MRPs identified. The most common MRPs were the use of potentially inappropriate medications (58.7%), drug interactions (46.9%), and adverse drug reactions (26.2%). Pharmacists recommended prescription modifications in 32.4% of MRPs, with an acceptance rate of 92.2%. Factors significantly associated with pharmacist interventions included advanced age (aOR 2.4 for ≥85 years), polypharmacy (aOR 2.3 for patients taking ≥20 medications), and the use of specific drug classes, such as anticholinergics, oral hypoglycemic agents, and proton pump inhibitors.

Conclusion

The hospital-based PMP effectively identified and addressed MRPs. Key factors influencing prescription modifications-such as polypharmacy, older age, and the use of specific medication classes-can serve as a strategic approach for selecting the target population that would benefit most from PMP. Further research is necessary to assess the long-term effects of the program on clinical outcomes and healthcare expenditures.