Evaluation of Adverse Drug Reactions in Elderly Patients - A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Age, polypharmacy, and significant medical conditions enhance geriatric Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR) risk. This group's adverse drug reactions must be examined to improve medication management and healthcare quality. Our retrospective cross-sectional study examined 250 older patients' ADR frequency, types, severity, and outcomes to better understand risk variables and clinical management.

Method: This retrospective cross-sectional study assessed 250 older adults' ADRs. EHR data from a Tertiary Care Centre was used. We used descriptive and inferential statistics to study demographics, ADR kinds, severity, and outcomes. SPSS data analysis included frequencies, t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression models.

Result: Most ADRs were GI (35.2%), CV (21.6%), and neurological (15.8%). 19.2% of  ADR were severe, 45.6% mild, and 35.2% moderate. Results showed 65.8% recovery, 18.4% longer hospital admissions, 10.6% morbidity, and 5.2% fatality. Age, polypharmacy, and comorbidities were found to be significant risk factors for severe adverse drug reactions (p < 0.05) in logistic regression.

Conclusion: This study highlights the necessity of individualised treatments and greater pharmacovigilance in clinical practice by showing that ADRs significantly impact elderly patient outcomes. Healthcare providers should focus patient education, geriatric assessments, and drug reviews to reduce ADR risks. Pharmacogenomics, comparative effectiveness research, and longitudinal studies should be used to improve ADR prevention and management in older adults.