5PSQ-050 Review of the use of neuroleptics in a nursing home associated with hospital pharmacy
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background and Importance The use of psychotropic drugs in the elderly has been increasing in recent years. Adequate prescription and review of these medications are essential given the risk of adverse effects, in order to minimise falls, cognitive decline, and increased mortality. The STOPP-START criteria are useful in identifying drugs that may be candidates for deprescription. This study analyses the use of psychotropic drugs in a healthcare centre for the elderly that is affiliated with a second-level hospital pharmacy service. Aim and Objectives Review the prescription of antipsychotics, identifying the most commonly used drugs, doses, and associated diagnoses. Identify drugs that may be suitable for deprescription using the STOPP-START criteria. Determine whether the use of these drugs is appropriate and justified in this group of patients. Material and Methods Observational and cross-sectional study in a nursing home for the elderly, conducted in June 2024, analysing the prescription and use of psychotropic drugs. The following data were collected: drug, dosage, and associated diagnosis. Compliance with clinical guidelines was also evaluated, and the STOPP-START criteria were applied to identify drugs suitable for deprescription. Results 43.7% of the patients (56) had antipsychotics prescribed. Quetiapine was the most common (42), with an average dose of 58 mg, followed by risperidone (24), with an average dose of 1.5 mg. Other antipsychotics used included aripiprazole (2), haloperidol (1), and paliperidone.1 All uses were justified based on associated diagnoses: dementia, agitation, refractory insomnia, or behavioural disturbances. Applying the STOPP-START criteria, 12 patients were identified as candidates for deprescription, as they were taking combinations of quetiapine and risperidone, and their treatment could be simplified to one of the two drugs. Conclusion and Relevance The use of psychotropic drugs in the nursing home is appropriate and in line with clinical guidelines. The involvement of the hospital pharmacy ensures responsible prescribing, with well-established protocols for review and deprescription. It is necessary to review antipsychotic combinations in some patients to reduce their use. References and/or Acknowledgements Osorio R, Hurtado-Mendoza A, Agüera-Ortiz LF. Uso de antipsicóticos fuera de indicación en los mayores. Informaciones Psiquiátricas. 2015;220:23–31 Conflict of Interest No conflict of interest
Authors: G Juan Antonio, T Alonso Domínguez, M Hernández Sánchez, A Martinez Orea, M Guillén, A Sánche Blaya, C Portero Ponce, E Palazón Gonzálvez, R Alegría, P Torrano Belmonte, L Frucutoso Gonzalez
Institution: Hospital General Universitario Morales Meseguer
Language: English
Subfield: Geriatrics and Gerontology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4408377064