E-Posters-Pharmacists Knowledge Regarding the Management of Overactive Bladder in Elderly Women

Pharmacists Knowledge Regarding the Management of Overactive Bladder in Elderly Women - George Araklitis

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A study was conducted to assess the knowledge of pharmacists regarding the management of overactive bladder (OAB) in elderly women, specifically focusing on the anticholinergic load/burden (AL) associated with certain medications. Between 8-37% of older adults use drugs with anticholinergic effects, and they are more sensitive to the cumulative effects of these medications due to age-related changes. It has been found that prescribing urological drugs increases the risk of dementia, highlighting the importance of careful prescribing by healthcare professionals.<br /><br />The study found that the knowledge among pharmacists could be improved, as they were less likely to be concerned about confusion compared to other healthcare professionals. Some prescribers did not take into account other drugs used for comorbidities, which could inadvertently increase the patient's AL. Only a minority of pharmacists were aware of how to assess for AL, consider AL when dispensing drugs, or advise prescribers. This is concerning because assessing AL in the elderly could reduce the risk of potential dementia development.<br /><br />Knowledge of which drugs are least likely to cross the blood brain barrier is crucial in tailoring treatment of OAB in the elderly. However, only 5% of pharmacists knew that Trospium Chloride was least likely to cross the blood brain barrier. Mirabegron, a beta-3 agonist, was identified as a potential alternative to anticholinergics for treating OAB in the elderly, with 71% of those who could prescribe using it in patients with cognitive impairment. However, a quarter of pharmacists believed that Mirabegron exerted anticholinergic effects.<br /><br />The study concludes that knowledge of AL among pharmacists needs to increase to ensure the safety of patients when prescribing anticholinergic medication. A questionnaire was distributed to pharmacists, with a response rate of 18%. The results showed that only a quarter of pharmacists were aware of how to assess for AL, and a minority discussed AL with patients or gave advice to prescribers. The most popularly prescribed drugs for OAB in patients over 65 years were Solifenacin and Tolterodine, with 43% each.<br /><br />Overall, the study highlights the need for improved knowledge among pharmacists regarding AL and the management of OAB in elderly women. It emphasizes the importance of considering potential medication interactions and reducing the risk of cognitive impairment in this population.

Keywords

pharmacists

knowledge

overactive bladder

elderly women

anticholinergic load

dementia risk

urological drugs

cognitive impairment

medication safety

medication management