Anticholinergic activity of commonly prescribed medications and neuropsychiatric adverse events in older people

High-Throughput Screening for Prescribing Cascades Among Real-World Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Initiators

PURPOSE

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are commonly prescribed, but their adverse effects may prompt new drug prescription(s), known as prescribing cascades (PCs). We aimed to identify potential ACEI-induced PCs using high-throughput sequence symmetry analysis.

METHODS

Using claims data from a national sample of Medicare beneficiaries (2011-2020), we identified new ACEI users aged ≥ 66 years with continuous enrollment ≥ 360 days before and ≥ 180 days after ACEI initiation. We screened for initiation of 446 other (non-antihypertensive) "marker" drug classes within ±90 days of ACEI initiation, generating sequence ratios (SRs) reflecting proportions of ACEI users starting the marker class after versus before ACEI initiation. Adjusted SRs (aSRs) accounted for prescribing trends over time. For significant aSRs, we calculated the naturalistic number needed to harm (NNTH), and significant signals underwent clinical review for plausibility.

RESULTS

We identified 308 579 ACEI initiators (mean age 76.1 ± 7.5 years; 59.6% female; 88.6% with hypertension). Of 446 marker classes evaluated, 81 signals were significant, and 42 (52%) classified as potential PCs after clinical review. The strongest signals ranked by lowest NNTH included corticosteroids (NNTH 313; 95% CI, 262-392) and serotonin type 3 (5-HT3) antagonists (NNTH 496; 95% CI, 392-689); the strongest signals ranked by highest aSR included sympathomimetics (aSR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.10-3.53) and other antianemic preparations (aSR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.31-2.67).

CONCLUSION

Identified prescribing cascade signals were indicative of known and possibly underrecognized ACEI adverse events in this Medicare cohort. The findings are hypothesis-generating and require further investigation to determine the extent and impact of the identified PCs on health outcomes.

Reducing the drug burden of sedative and anticholinergic medications in older adults: a scoping review of explicit decision criteria

OBJECTIVES

To describe the extent, characteristics, and knowledge gaps regarding explicit decision criteria for deprescribing drugs with anticholinergic or sedative properties (Ach/Sed) in older adults.

DESIGN

Scoping review.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Original studies, clinical trial protocols, grey literature, and Summaries of Product Characteristics.

METHODS

Searches targeting explicit decision criteria for deprescribing Ach/Sed were performed across MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science, including trial registries (clinicaltrials.gov, ICTRP, EU-CTR, ANZCTR) for pertinent articles, study protocols. Additionally, to encompass non-traditional or 'grey literature' sources, Google searches and relevant agency websites were explored, alongside the summary of product characteristics for Ach/Sed.

RESULTS

The initial literature search identified 8,192 unique data sources. After review, 188 original articles or books, 79 internet sources, and 127 SmPCs were included. Examining these sources for explicit criteria for 154 Ach/Sed, overall, 1,271 explicit criteria guidance for identifying clinical scenarios warranting deprescription of Ach/Sed across 145/154 Ach/Sed were identified. These criteria were identified mainly from qualitative research and Summaries of Product Characteristics. Additionally, 455 criteria-based recommendations suggesting approaches for tapering implementation across 76/154 Ach/Sed were identified, mostly from sources classified as expert opinions. Significant heterogeneity was found across the approaches for tapering Ach/Sed.

CONCLUSIONS

This scoping review provides a comprehensive overview of the literature providing guidance for clinical scenarios where Ach/Sed should be deprescribed and highlights the existing knowledge gaps regarding comprehensive guidance on tapering these drugs which warranties future research and development.

The Prognostic Utility of Anticholinergic Burden Scales: An Integrative Review and Gap Analysis

BACKGROUND

Anticholinergic drugs are commonly prescribed, especially to older adults. Anticholinergic burden scales (ABS) have been used to evaluate the cumulative effects of multiple anticholinergics. However, studies have shown inconsistent results regarding the association between anticholinergic burden assessed with ABS and adverse clinical outcomes such as cognitive impairment, functional decline, and frailty. This review aims to identify gaps in research on the development, validation, and evaluation of ABS, and provide recommendations for future studies.

METHOD

A comprehensive search of five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsychInfo, CINAHL, CENTRAL) was conducted for relevant studies published from inception until 25 May 2023. Two reviewers screened for eligibility and assessed the quality of studies using different tools based on the study design and stage of the review framework. Research evidence was evaluated, and gaps were identified and grouped into evidence, knowledge, and methodological gaps, using evidence tables to summarize data.

RESULTS

Several evidence, knowledge, and methodological gaps in existing development, validation, and evaluation studies of ABS were identified. There is no universally accepted scale, and there is a need to define a clinically relevant threshold for measuring total anticholinergic burden. The current evidence has limitations, underrepresenting low- and middle-income countries, younger individuals, and populations with cognitive disabilities. The impact of anticholinergic burden on frailty is also understudied. Existing evaluation studies provide limited evidence on the benefit of reducing anticholinergic burden on clinical outcomes or the safety of anticholinergic deprescribing. There is also uncertainty regarding optimal reduction, clinically significant anticholinergic burden thresholds, and cost effectiveness.

CONCLUSIONS

Future research recommendations to bridge knowledge gaps include developing a risk assessment framework, refining ABS scales, establishing a standardized consensus scale, and creating a longitudinal measure of cumulative anticholinergic risk. Strategies to minimize bias, consider frailty, and promote multidisciplinary and multinational collaborations are also necessary to improve patient outcomes.

Use of Anti-Dementia Drugs Reduces the Risk of Potentially Inappropriate Medications: A Secondary Analysis of a Nationwide Survey of Prescribing Pharmacies

AIMS

As the number of older people with dementia increases, safe pharmacotherapy in this population has attracted attention in recent years. The aims of this study were to clarify the prescribing patterns in older patients who were prescribed anti-dementia drugs and to investigate the association of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) with the use of anti-dementia drugs.

METHODS

Adults aged ≥65 years, who were prescribed anti-dementia drugs at 585 pharmacies across Japan (N = 7,953), were surveyed. The percentage of prescriptions of anti-dementia drugs and the effect of those prescriptions on PIMs were investigated.

RESULTS

Prescriptions of anti-dementia drugs were found in 4.4% of the entire study population. A multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the use of anti-dementia drugs reduced the risk of prescribing psychotropic drugs, which represented PIMs, and that a combination of anti-dementia drugs (e.g., cholineesterase inhibitor with memantine) may reduce the risk of prescribing PIMs compared with monotherapy.

CONCLUSION

The use of anti-dementia drugs was associated with fewer prescriptions of drugs considered as PIMs.

The Effect of Cumulative Anticholinergic Use on the Cognitive Function of Older Adults: Results from the Personality and Total Health (PATH) Through Life Study

BACKGROUND

Multiple comorbidities are common in older adults, resulting in polypharmacy that often includes medications with anticholinergic properties. These medications have multiple side effects, which are more pronounced in the older population. This study examined the association between the use of anticholinergics and changes in the cognitive function of older adults.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 2,222 individuals aged 65-69 years at baseline from the Personality and Total Health (PATH) Through Life Study in Australia. Medication data were obtained from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Cognitive measures were obtained from neuropsychological battery assessment. Exposure to cumulative anticholinergic use was quantified to a total standardized daily dose (TSDD). The association between change in cognitive measures between baseline and 4-year follow-up, and cumulative use of anticholinergic was assessed through generalized linear models.

RESULTS

During the study period, 18.6% (n = 413) of participants filled at least one prescription for anticholinergics. Compared to those not on anticholinergics, participants on anticholinergics were more likely to be woman (62.7% compared to 45.1%) and spent lesser time engaging in vigorous physical activity (0.4 h/week compared to 0.9 h/week). Cumulative use of anticholinergic resulting in a TSDD exceeding 1,095 was significantly associated with poorer performance in Trail Making Test Part B (Model 1: β = 5.77, Model 2: β = 5.33, Model 3: β = 8.32, p < .01), indicating impairment in processing speed.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, except for speed of processing, other cognitive domains measured were not affected by cumulative anticholinergic use over a 4-year period.

A Comprehensive Evaluation of Studies on the Adverse Effects of Medications in Australian Aged care Facilities: A Scoping Review

Aim: this scoping review was designed to identify studies that assess adverse drug reactions (ADRs) for older people in Australian aged care facilities. This review critically evaluates each published study to identify the risk of, or actual, adverse drug events in older people. Inclusion criteria: this review considered any clinical studies that examined the adverse effects of medications in older people who were living in aged care facilities. This review considered qualitative studies, analytical studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), descriptive cross-sectional studies, and analytic observational studies that explored the use of medications and their adverse effects on older people in clinical settings (including aged care facilities). Methods: an initial search of the PubMed (United State National Library of Medicine), OvidSP, EBSCOHost, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online, SAGE, and SCOPUS databases, with full text was performed, followed by an analysis of the article's title and abstract. Additionally, MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) was used to describe the article. The initial round of the database search was based on inclusion criteria from studies that assessed tools or protocols aiming to identify the adverse effects of medications on the elderly population suffering chronic conditions or multiple co-morbidities. Two reviewers screened the retrieved papers for inclusion. The data presented in this review are in tabular forms and accompanied by a narrative summary which aligns with the review's objectives. Results: seven studies were identified, and the extracted data from these studies were grouped according their characteristics and the auditing results of each study. Conclusion: it would be beneficial to design a comprehensive or broadly adverse drug reaction assessment tool derived from Australian data that has been used on the elderly in an Australian healthcare setting.

How do cognitive and functional impairment relate to the use of anticholinergic medications in hospitalised patients aged 65 years and over?

BACKGROUND

Anticholinergic medications are commonly prescribed to older adults despite their unfavourable pharmacological profile. There are no specific systems in place to alert prescribers about the wide range of medications with anticholinergic properties and their cumulative potential.

AIMS

To examine associations between medications with anticholinergic properties and cognitive and functional impairment in hospitalised patients aged 65 years and older.

METHODS

This descriptive, cross-sectional study included 94 patients admitted to a rehabilitation ward and a geriatric evaluation and management unit. Anticholinergic burden was calculated using the Anticholinergic Risk Scale. The Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination and the Elderly Symptom Assessment Scale tools were utilised to assess cognitive function and burden of anticholinergic symptoms, respectively.

RESULTS

Medications with anticholinergic properties were taken by 72.3% of patients with level 1 being the most commonly consumed (median 1, IQR = 0-2) medications. There was no association between anticholinergic medication use and cognitive function or anticholinergic symptoms. Increasing age and the hospital length of stay were associated with fewer anticholinergic symptoms (p < 0.001 and p = 0.021, respectively), whereas the total number of medications consumed was linked to a greater burden of anticholinergic symptoms (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

A lack of association between anticholinergic medications and cognitive function could be related to duration of exposure to this group of medications and the age sensitivity. Additionally, the total number of medications consumed by patients was linked to a greater burden of anticholinergic symptoms. These findings highlight the need for improved knowledge and attentiveness when prescribing medications in general in this vulnerable population.

Integration of an electronic Drug Burden Index risk assessment tool into Home Medicines Reviews: deprescribing anticholinergic and sedative medications

Background:

Our aim in this research was to establish whether integrating an electronically generated calculation and report on the Drug Burden Index (DBI) in the Home Medicines Review (HMR) setting is an accurate, feasible and useful risk assessment tool to assess risk of anticholinergic and sedative medications; and to establish whether the intervention of DBI together with HMR is associated with a reduced use of anticholinergic and sedative medications in older community-dwelling adults in Australia.

Methods:

An interventional feasibility study was conducted. Accredited clinical pharmacists (APs) were recruited to participate. Each AP was educated on implementation of the DBI into HMR practice and given access to the DBI Calculator© web-based software to generate the DBI report for inclusion in HMR reports for general practitioners (GPs). APs recruited patients (⩾65 years) who were referred to them for HMRs. Patients were sent a letter about their DBI exposure, and a prompt to visit their GP to discuss their medication management options. GPs, APs and patients were asked to evaluate the feasibility and utility of the DBI report. A medication inventory was collected from patients at the time of the HMR and at 3 months to determine whether the intervention affected deprescribing of medications with anticholinergic and sedative effects.

Results:

Regarding the feasibility of the DBI report as a risk assessment tool within HMR, 89% of APs and 67% of GPs agreed that it would be feasible. The DBI Calculator© was potentially inaccurate, as 26% of DBI scores were underestimated and 7% were overestimated (at baseline). At 3 months, the median (interquartile range) DBI for patients (n = 100) significantly decreased from 0.82 (0–1.33) to 0.67 (0–1.29) (p = 0.014). Additionally, of patients with a DBI > 0 (n = 66), 36.4% had their DBI score decrease, and 6.1% had a score increase.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that integration of the DBI Calculator© into HMR is a feasible and useful method to prompt deprescribing of anticholinergic and sedative medications in older adults. There is potential for the accuracy of the web-based platform to be improved.

Registration of trial:

Name: Feasibility study of the Drug Burden Index with Home Medicines Review.

Website: https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=368523

Trial ID: ACTRN 12615000539538.

A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study of Dementia Risk Among Acid Suppressant Users

OBJECTIVE

Data regarding the potential link between acid suppressant use and dementia are inconsistent. This study assessed the association between cumulative exposure to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and dementia risk among Korean adults.

DESIGN AND METHODS

A population-based longitudinal study was conducted using the Korean National Health Insurance Corporation claims database merged with national health examination data for 2002-2013. The study cohort included 70,529 subjects who were dementia-free in 2007. Incident dementia was assessed throughout follow-up until 2013. Exposure to acid suppressants prior to 2007 was assessed using a standardized defined daily dose system. Potential associations between acid suppressant use and dementia risk were analyzed using time-dependent Cox regression estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

There were 1,297 cases of dementia during the study period. Multivariate analyses identified several factors associated with dementia risk: old age, female, current smoker, Type 2 diabetes, comorbidities, and use of nonaspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. H2RA users had a significantly increased risk of dementia compared with non-H2RA users (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.13-1.51), whereas PPI use was not associated with increased risk.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that exposure to H2RAs (but not PPIs) is associated with increased dementia risk. Further randomized controlled trials and basic research examining the underlying mechanism are needed to confirm this association.

Frequency of non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease presenting to tertiary care centre in Pakistan: an observational, cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency of non-motor symptoms (NMS) in patients of Parkinson's disease (PD) presenting to a movement disorder clinic at a tertiary care centre in Pakistan, and how frequency of NMS is different in male and female patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational, cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Tertiary care centre.

PARTICIPANTS

Out of 102 patients, 85 were included. Inclusion criteria were patients with PD diagnosed according to the UK Parkinson's Disease Society Brain Bank Clinical Diagnostic Criteria, age ≥18 years, able to give consent and have no difficulty in answering questions. Exclusion criteria were diseases that resemble PD, stroke, dementia, patients unable to provide information and history of antipsychotic use.

RESULTS

The NMSQuest revealed a mean of nearly seven different NMS per patient. Autonomic problems such as constipation (56%) and nocturia (49%) were the most common NMS, while urinary urgency was reported by 35% of patients. Low mood and feeling sad were reported by 47%, whereas feeling anxious/panicky was reported by 36%. Problem with memory was reported by 45% of patients. Feeling of light-headedness and dizziness was reported by 40% of patients. Problems with sexual relationship were reported by 30% of patients. The most common sleep problem was difficulty falling sleep (29%). Pain not related to the musculoskeletal system was reported by 30% of patients. Loss or change in the ability to taste or smell was reported by 29% of patients. The rest of NMS were less than 25% in frequency. Feeling sad or blue, feeling light-headed/dizzy, unexplained pain, unpleasant sensations in the legs, difficulty in swallowing and faecal incontinence were more common in female participants, while problems with sex were more common in male participants.

CONCLUSION

NMS are quite prevalent in PD in our population. Certain NMS are more common in women as compared with men. There is a need for a large-scale study to look for the association of different NMS with sex.

Deprescribing anticholinergic and sedative medicines: protocol for a Feasibility Trial (DEFEAT-polypharmacy) in residential aged care facilities

INTRODUCTION

Targeted deprescribing of anticholinergic and sedative medicines can lead to positive health outcomes in older people; as they have been associated with cognitive and physical functioning decline. This study will examine whether the proposed intervention is feasible at reducing the prescription of anticholinergic and sedative medicines in older people.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional trials (SPIRIT checklist) was used to develop and report the protocol. Single group (precomparison and postcomparison) feasibility study design.

STUDY POPULATION

3 residential care homes have been recruited.

INTERVENTION

This will involve a New Zealand registered pharmacist using peer-reviewed deprescribing guidelines, to recommend to general practitioners (GPs), sedative and anticholinergic medicines that can be deprescribed. The cumulative use of anticholinergic and sedative medicines for each participant will be quantified, using the Drug Burden Index (DBI).

OUTCOMES

The primary outcome will be the change in the participants' DBI total and DBI PRN 3 and 6 months after implementing the deprescribing intervention. Secondary outcomes will include the number of recommendations taken up by the GP, participants' cognitive functioning, depression, quality of life, activities of daily living and number of falls.

DATA COLLECTION POINTS

Participants' demographic and clinical data will be collected at the time of enrolment, along with the DBI. Outcome measures will be collected at the time of enrolment, 3 and 6 months' postenrolment.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval has been granted by the Human Disability and Ethics Committee. Ethical approval number (16/NTA/61).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Pre-results; ACTRN12616000721404.

Serum Anticholinergic Activity and Cognitive and Functional Adverse Outcomes in Older People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Literature

INTRODUCTION

Studies have reported associations between serum anticholinergic activity (SAA) and decline in cognitive performance, delirium, and functional impairment. The aim of this meta-analysis was to explore and quantify associations between SAA and adverse cognitive and functional outcomes in older people.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search in Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and IPA from 1946-2014 was completed. The primary outcomes of interest were cognitive and functional adverse outcomes associated with SAA in older people aged 55 years and above. The Cochrane Risk-Bias assessment tool was used to assess bias in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of non-RCTs. Meta-analyses were conducted for RCTs and cohort studies separately. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 tests.

RESULTS

The primary electronic literature search identified a total of 1559 records in the 4 different databases. On the basis of full-text analysis, 33 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The review included 4 RCTs, 5 prospective cohort studies, 3 longitudinal cohort studies, 17 cross-sectional studies, and 4 case-control studies. Twenty-four of the retrieved studies examined an association between SAA and cognitive outcomes, 2 studies examined an association with SAA and functional outcomes and 8 studies examined associations between SAA and both cognitive, and functional outcomes. The meta-analysis on 4 RCTs showed no association with higher SAA and cognitive performance (I2 = 89.38%, H2 = 25.53 and p-value = <0.05) however, the pooled data from 4 observational studies showed elevated SAA was associated with reduced cognitive performance (I2 = 0.00%, H2 = 3.37 and p-value = 0.34).

CONCLUSION

This systematic review summarises the limitations of the SAA on predicting cognitive and functional outcomes in older people. SAA measured by receptor bioassay is flawed and its use in older people with multimorbidity and polypharmacy is questionable.

The Influence of Patient Characteristics on Anticholinergic Events in Older People

Aims

To examine patient characteristics that predict adverse anticholinergic-type events in older people.

Methods

This retrospective population-level study included 2,248 hospitalised patients. Individual data on medicines that are commonly associated with anticholinergic events (delirium, constipation and urinary retention) were identified. Patient characteristics examined were medicines with anticholinergic effects (ACh burden), age, sex, non-anticholinergic medicines (non-ACM), Charlson comorbidity index scores and ethnicity. The Akaike information criterion was used for model selection. The data were analysed using logistic regression models for anticholinergic events using the software NONMEM.

Results

ACh burden was found to be a significant independent predictor for developing an anticholinergic event [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 3.21, 95% CI: 1.23-5.81] for those taking an average of 5 anticholinergic medicines compared to those taking 1. Both non-ACM and age were also independent risk factors (aOR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.31-1.51 and aOR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.05-1.10, respectively).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study that has examined population-level data in a nonlinear model framework to predict anticholinergic-type adverse events. This study evaluated the relationship between important patient characteristics and the occurrence of anticholinergic-type events. These findings reinforce the clinical significance of reviewing anticholinergic medicines in older people.

Impact of residential medication management reviews on anticholinergic burden in aged care residents

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact of Residential Medication Management Reviews (RMMRs) on anticholinergic burden quantified by seven anticholinergic risk scales.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

SETTING

Accredited pharmacists conducted RMMRs in aged-care facilities (ACFs) in Sydney, Australia.

PARTICIPANTS

RMMRs pertained to 814 residents aged 65 years or older.

MEASUREMENTS

Anticholinergic burden was quantified using seven scales at baseline, after pharmacists' recommendations and after the actual GP uptake of pharmacists' recommendations. Change in the anticholinergic burden was measured using the Wilcoxon sign rank test.

RESULTS

At baseline, depending on the scale used to estimate the anticholinergic burden, between 36% and 67% of patients were prescribed at least one regular anticholinergic medication (ACM). Anticholinergic burden scores were significantly (p < 0.001) lower after pharmacists' recommendations as determined by each of the seven scales. The reduction in anticholinergic burden was also significant (p < 0.001) after GPs' acceptance of the pharmacists' recommendations according to all scales with the exception of one scale which reached borderline significance (p = 0.052).

CONCLUSION

Despite the limitations of the retrospective design and differences in the estimation of anticholinergic burden, this is the first study to demonstrate that RMMRs are effective in reducing ACM prescribing in ACF residents, using a range of measures of anticholinergic burden. Future studies should focus on whether a decrease in anticholinergic burden will translate into improvement in clinical outcomes.

Anticholinergic burden quantified by anticholinergic risk scales and adverse outcomes in older people: a systematic review

Background

The cumulative effect of taking multiple medicines with anticholinergic properties termed as anticholinergic burden can adversely impact cognition, physical function and increase the risk of mortality. Expert opinion derived risk scales are routinely used in research and clinical practice to quantify anticholinergic burden. These scales rank the anticholinergic activity of medicines into four categories, ranging from no anticholinergic activity (= 0) to definite/high anticholinergic activity (= 3). The aim of this systematic review was to compare anticholinergic burden quantified by the anticholinergic risk scales and evaluate associations with adverse outcomes in older people.

Methods

We conducted a literature search in Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO from 1984-2014 to identify expert opinion derived anticholinergic risk scales. In addition to this, a citation analysis was performed in Web of Science and Google Scholar to track prospective citing of references of selected articles for assessment of individual scales for adverse anticholinergic outcomes. The primary outcomes of interest were functional and cognitive outcomes associated with anticholinergic burden in older people. The critical appraisals of the included studies were performed by two independent reviewers and the data were extracted onto standardised forms.

Results

The primary electronic literature search identified a total of 1250 records in the 3 different databases. On the basis of full-text analysis, we identified 7 expert-based anticholinergic rating scales that met the inclusion criteria. The rating of anticholinergic activity for medicines among these rating scales was inconsistent. For example, quetiapine was rated as having high anticholinergic activity in one scale (n = 1), moderate in another scale (n = 1) and low in two other scales (n = 2). Citation analysis of the individual scales showed that the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden (ACB) scale was the most frequently validated expert based anticholinergic scale for adverse outcomes (N = 13).

Conclusions

In conclusion, there is not one standardised tool for measuring anticholinergic burden. Cohort studies have shown that higher anticholinergic burden is associated with negative brain effects, poorer cognitive and functional outcomes.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12877-015-0029-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Multiple anticholinergic medication use and risk of hospital admission for confusion or dementia

OBJECTIVES

To identify the association between use of multiple anticholinergic medications and risk of hospitalization for confusion or dementia.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study conducted over 2 years between July 2010 and June 2012, using administrative claims data from the Australian Department of Veterans' Affairs.

SETTING

Australia.

PARTICIPANTS

Australian veterans dispensed at least one moderately or highly anticholinergic medication in the year before study start.

MEASUREMENTS

Cumulative anticholinergic use on each day of the study period was determined. The association between hospitalization for confusion or dementia and number of anticholinergic medications used at the time of admission was compared against times during which participants were not taking anticholinergic medications. Sensitivity analyses were undertaken limiting the outcome to admissions for acute confusion and excluding individuals taking antipsychotics.

RESULTS

Adjusted results showed a significantly greater risk of hospitalization for confusion or dementia when individuals were taking two or more anticholinergic medications. The adjusted incident rate ratios (IRRs) were 2.58 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.91-3.48) for those taking two anticholinergics and 3.87 (95% CI = 1.83-8.21) for those taking three or more. Sensitivity analyses in which participants taking antipsychotic medications were excluded and the outcome was limited to acute confusion also found similar risks for those taking two (IRR 1.82, 95% CI = 1.18-2.80) and three or more (IRR = 3.98 95% CI = 1.50-10.58) anticholinergic medications.

CONCLUSION

Taking more anticholinergic medications is associated with greater risk of hospitalization for confusion or dementia. Strategies to reduce anticholinergic medication burden are likely to translate into significant health benefits.

Drug Burden Index in older adults: theoretical and practical issues

Anticholinergic and sedative medications are commonly used in older adults and are associated with adverse clinical outcomes. The Drug Burden Index was developed to measure the cumulative exposure to these medications in older adults and its impact on physical and cognitive function. This narrative review discusses the research and clinical applications of the Drug Burden Index, and its advantages and limitations, compared with other pharmacologically developed measures of high-risk prescribing.

Can medication management review reduce anticholinergic burden (ACB) in the elderly? Encouraging results from a theoretical model

BACKGROUND

Review of recent journal articles and various relevant current textbooks provides strong evidence to show that anticholinergic burden is a material issue in frail and at-risk patients. This study assesses the anticholinergic burden in a group of patients in residential care facilities and then applies a theoretical intervention model. It is based on a scoring system known as the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden (ACB) scale, and attempts to reduce the anticholinergic burden while maintaining therapeutic benefits.

METHODS

A database of 691 patients was analyzed for each individual's ACB based on the scale of scoring produced by groups of experts in the area. A theoretical intervention was then conducted using relevant, evidence-based practice guidelines for clinical therapeutics in Australia. The intervention had the aim of reducing the total ACB without affecting the apparent intended effectiveness of the prescribed therapy.

RESULTS

Of the 35% (n = 242) patients who score at least 1 point on the ACB, a reduction is achievable in 59% of the cases. In particular, the reduction from a clinically significant score of 3 or above to 2 or below for 49 of those patients is possible in 85% of the cases. Overall, this represents a reduction from 7.10% to 1.01% for the entire population. It is also found that of the 246,960 counts of items dispensed (both prescription and non-prescription) for these patients, 47,334 (or 19.2%) of these were of agents on the ACB scale.

CONCLUSIONS

The study found that it appears to be possible that the total ACB of a group of 691 patients can be significantly reduced.

Cognitive risks of anticholinergics in the elderly

Many drugs commonly prescribed to the elderly have anticholinergic properties. Due to the current clinical use of drugs with mild-to-modest anticholinergic activity, the clinical manifestations of anticholinergic toxicity are likely to be nonspecific (e.g., cognitive impairment) and reflect the effects of cumulative anticholinergic burden. Age-associated physiological and pharmacokinetic changes increase anticholinergic drug effects in later life. Those with cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration are particularly susceptible to anticholinergic toxicity. Recent findings suggest that chronic anticholinergic burden may hasten or contribute to a neurodegenerative process. APOE ε4 carrier status may be a genetic risk factor for vulnerability to negative anticholinergic effects. There is no clinically available laboratory test to assess anticholinergic levels. Clinicians need to be cognizant of anticholinergic risks in later life. The use of clinical scales (e.g., Anticholinergic Drug Scale) and consensus guidelines (e.g., Revised Beers Criteria) may be helpful.

Pharmacological risk factors for delirium after cardiac surgery: a review

PURPOSE

The objective of this review is to evaluate the literature on medications associated with delirium after cardiac surgery and potential prophylactic agents for preventing it.

SOURCE

Articles were searched in MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, and EMBASE with the MeSH headings: delirium, cardiac surgical procedures, and risk factors, and the keywords: delirium, cardiac surgery, risk factors, and drugs. Principle inclusion criteria include having patient samples receiving cardiac procedures on cardiopulmonary bypass, and using DSM-IV-TR criteria or a standardized tool for the diagnosis of delirium.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Fifteen studies were reviewed. Two single drugs (intraoperative fentanyl and ketamine), and two classes of drugs (preoperative antipsychotics and postoperative inotropes) were identified in the literature as being independently associated with delirium after cardiac surgery. Another seven classes of drugs (preoperative antihypertensives, anticholinergics, antidepressants, benzodiazepines, opioids, and statins, and postoperative opioids) and three single drugs (intraoperative diazepam, and postoperative dexmedetomidine and rivastigmine) have mixed findings. One drug (risperidone) has been shown to prevent delirium when taken immediately upon awakening from cardiac surgery. None of these findings was replicated in the studies reviewed.

CONCLUSION

These studies have shown that drugs taken perioperatively by cardiac surgery patients need to be considered in delirium risk management strategies. While medications with direct neurological actions are clearly important, this review has shown that specific cardiovascular drugs may also require attention. Future studies that are methodologically consistent are required to further validate these findings and improve their utility.

Xerostomia and medication: a cross-sectional study in long-term geriatric wards

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of xerostomia in old people living in long-term geriatric wards, and to measure the relationship between xerostomia and etiologic factors such as age and medication (total number of medications, xerogenic medications, anticholinergic medications and medications that induce hypersialorrhea).

DESIGN

An observational retrospective, comparative, multicentre epidemiological study.

SETTING

Long-term geriatric wards, in Reims, France.

PARTICIPANTS

769 old people living in long-term geriatric wards.

MEASUREMENTS

Prevalence of xerostomia assessed from age, total number of medications, xerogenic medications, anticholinergic medications and those that induce hypersialorrhea. Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate Odds Ratios (OR) and their 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CI).

RESULTS

Among 769 old people (average age 84.6±8.4 years old), 287 residents suffered from xerostomia (37.3%). Significant predictors of xerostomia were: resident's age OR=1.56, 95% CI (1.30-1.88), p<0.0001 and anticholinergic medications OR=1.35, 95% CI (1.05-1.73), p=0.02. The only protective factor against xerostomia identified was medications that induce hypersialorrhea OR=0.81, 95% CI (0.67-0.98), p=0.03. The total number of medications and xerogenic medications did not play a significant role in xerostomia.

CONCLUSION

Increasing Age and anticholinergic medications induce a dry mouth. Conversely, the total number of medications and xerogenic medications do not influence xerostomia. Medications that induce hypersialorrhea protect against the occurrence of dry mouth.

Anticholinergic drug use and mortality among residents of long-term care facilities: a prospective cohort study

Few studies have investigated the possible association between use of anticholinergic drugs and mortality. The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence and determinants of anticholinergic drug use and the possible association between anticholinergic drug use and mortality. Data were obtained from 53 long-term care wards in Helsinki, Finland, in 2003. Medication, diagnostic, and mortality data were available for 1004 residents. Each resident's anticholinergic load was calculated using the Anticholinergic Risk Scale (ARS). Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate the risk of death among users with a mild anticholinergic load (ARS score 1-2) and high load (ARS score ≥3) compared with nonusers of anticholinergic drugs. Age, sex, and nutritional status were used as covariates. Among the 1004 residents, 455 (45%) were nonusers of anticholinergic drugs, 363 (36%) had a mild anticholinergic load, and 186 (19%) had a high anticholinergic load. One-year all-cause mortality rates were 28%, 29%, and 27%, respectively. Higher ARS scores were not associated with mortality (ARS score 1-2: hazard ratio 1.08; 95% confidence interval, 0.84-1.41; ARS score ≥3: hazard ratio 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 0.75-1.46). Anticholinergic drug use was common; however, high ARS scores were not associated with mortality. Further research is needed using alternative models and among different resident populations.