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E-Newsletter • December 2024 |
Editor's E-Note
Overly Prescribed
A recent study published in Stroke found that approximately 5% of stroke survivors aged 65 and older received new benzodiazepine prescriptions within 90 days poststroke. Over half of these prescriptions were for 15 to 30 days' supply, exceeding recommended short-term use. This excessive overprescription can hinder recovery and day-to-day life for the patient.
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— Chris Baldwin, editor |
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| In This E-Newsletter
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Initial Prescriptions of Sedatives Among Older Stroke Survivors May Include Too Many Pills
Although there has been a slight downward trend in the prescription of benzodiazepines (depressants that relieve anxiety and muscle spasms, produce sedation, and reduce seizures) among older adults over the last decade, the rate of first-time prescriptions for these medications after an ischemic (clot-caused) stroke is still sizable, according to research published in Stroke, the peer-reviewed scientific journal of the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association.
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After a stroke, benzodiazepines may be used to calm anxiety and improve sleep. However, when prescribed to older adults, these medications may increase the risk of falls and broken bones, as well as memory problems, confusion, and other harmful effects. The US Drug Enforcement Agency lists benzodiazepines as a schedule IV-controlled substance and has the potential for abuse, addiction, withdrawal, and illegal distribution.
Researchers reviewed data from Medicare claims in the United States and analyzed 10 years of first-time prescriptions for benzodiazepines among more than 120,000 people, ages 65 and older, who were hospitalized for ischemic stroke. The rate of benzodiazepine prescriptions during the first three months after stroke was examined, and data were adjusted for race, sex, and ethnicity. Then, year-to-year prescription patterns were reviewed to identify the number of potentially excessive new benzodiazepine prescriptions given to stroke survivors.
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Teamwork Makes Care Teams Work
A University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus study found that involving the entire health care team in bedside interdisciplinary rounds (BIDR) leads to more positive care experiences for both patients and providers. Published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, the study highlights that BIDR fosters trust by encouraging close collaboration among team members and patients, reports Science Daily.
Changes in Medicare Will Affect Millions
Millions of seniors will lose access to their Medicare Advantage plans after insurers cut options following the Inflation Reduction Act, reports Newsweek. Impacted seniors must switch plans by December 31 or be automatically enrolled in traditional Medicare. Experts advise on steps to secure needed coverage.
Timing of Palliative Care and Health Resource Utilization
New research of 8,297 ovarian cancer decedents in Ontario, Canada, indicated earlier palliative care—initiated more than three months before death—was linked to significantly better end-of-life outcomes. This included fewer hospital deaths, lower rates of late chemotherapy, reduced ICU admissions, and less aggressive end-of-life care. Data spanned 2006 to 2018, with analysis completed in 2024. The study was published in JAMA Network Open.
Drug Shows Promise for Hot Flashes Due to Menopause
A new menopause treatment, elinzanetant, eased hot flashes and improved sleep in two phase 3 trials. Over 50% of users saw reduced hot flashes by week four. By week 12, over 70% on elinzanetant, compared with 40% on placebo, experienced a significant reduction, reports Science News. |
A Handy Resource Always Nearby
Geriatrics At Your Fingertips, developed by the American Geriatrics Society, is a useful tool for practicing clinicians or trainees working with older adults. Get access to answers to geriatric assessment and treatment questions with a $19.99 annual subscription for the service. The subscription includes content updates, over 100 searchable medication tables, easy algorithms, calculators, assessment tools, and bookmarks for frequently used resources. The app is available on iOS and the Google Play Store. Learn more »
Confronting Adult Eating Disorders
Therapy for Relationships With Eating Disorders, by Kim Lampson, PhD; John M. Gottman, PhD; and Julie Schwartz Gottman, PhD, releases on December 3, 2024. Adult eating disorder relapse rates are still startlingly high, and effective treatment approaches are still elusive for practitioners. Meanwhile, the impact on their romantic relationships is often overlooked or ignored. Learn more » |
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COVER STORY
Stemming the Spread of Syphilis
Rates of infection are soaring, and the need for awareness, education, and assessment is urgent.
FEATURE
Nutrition’s Impact on Cognitive Decline
Choosing an evidence-based, brain-healthy dietary pattern tailored to individual preferences and cultural traditions can slow disease progression and make a difference in patient care.
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