20% Of 65+ Community-Dwelling Adults Prescribed Inappropriate Medications

An estimated 20% of community-dwelling adults age 65 or older are prescribed potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) each year in the United States. The most common PIMs are benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, tricyclic antidepressants, and first-generation antihistamines.

PIMs are defined as medications in which the potential risks may be greater than the potential benefits. The effects of the most common PIMs are well documented. Benzodiazepines can cause delirium and mobility issues; they are associated with a 15% increased risk of fracture and a 35% increased risk of a hip fracture. Anticholinergic medications, such as first-generation antihistamines or antidepressants . . .