DRUG-AD – Study of Polypharmacy in Adults with Cognitive Impairment
The main objective of this study is to analyze the prevalence of polypharmacy and hyperpolypharmacy in adults with cognitive impairment seen in a Memory Unit, as well as to identify associated clinical and demographic factors, including age, sex, cognitive status, and comorbidities.
The study arises from growing concern about the concomitant use of multiple medications in the elderly and its potential negative impact on cognitive function.
Prevalence of Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIMs)
Specifically, the study aims to determine the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in older adults with cognitive impairment, focusing on drugs associated with higher risk of progression to dementia, such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and medications with anticholinergic burden. The use of these drugs is also evaluated in subgroups of patients with positive Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid, exploring their relationship with progression risk and mortality.
Comparison of Pharmacological Profiles
Another relevant objective is to describe differences between the pharmacological profile of patients eligible for clinical trials and the average profile of patients seen in a Memory Unit, for both clinical and operational purposes.
Clinical and Logistical Optimization
The study also has an internal and logistical goal: to facilitate systematic and automated review of concomitant medication to improve patient selection and evaluation in clinical trials and optimize therapeutic management in routine clinical practice.
