Prescription drug claims following a traumatic spinal cord injury for older adults: a retrospective population-based study in Ontario, Canada

Spinal Cord, 2018 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41393-018-0174-z · Published: July 31, 2018

Simple Explanation

This study looks at the use of multiple medications (polypharmacy) in older adults who have experienced a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). It investigates how common polypharmacy is after the injury and what factors might contribute to it. The study found that many older adults with SCI take numerous medications, and that having consistent care from the same doctor is linked to a lower risk of polypharmacy. These findings highlight the need for careful medication management and coordinated care for older adults with SCI to reduce the risk of drug-related problems.

Study Duration

10 years (2004-2014)

Participants

418 individuals 66 years of age and older with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Retrospective cohort study

Key Findings

1
A total of 233 patients (56%) were taking at least 10 drug classes in the year following discharge from care for traumatic SCI.
2
Continuity of care was signiﬁcantly associated with polypharmacy, with a higher continuity of care (having at least 75% of visits with the same doctor) reducing the risk of polypharmacy.
3
The most common drugs prescribed were laxatives, opioids and cardiovascular-related drugs.

Research Summary

This retrospective study examined polypharmacy among older adults with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) in Ontario, Canada, using administrative health data from 2004 to 2014. The study found a high prevalence of polypharmacy, with 56% of patients taking 10 or more drug classes in the year following discharge. Better continuity of care was associated with a lower risk of polypharmacy, suggesting the importance of integrated and coordinated care for this population.

Practical Implications

Improve Continuity of Care

Healthcare providers should prioritize continuity of care for older adults with SCI to reduce the risk of polypharmacy.

Medication Management Programs

Implementing comprehensive medication management programs, including pharmacist involvement, can help optimize medication use and reduce drug-related problems.

Further Research

Future research should examine the long-term effects of polypharmacy on quality of life and well-being in this population.

Study Limitations

1
The study could not capture individuals on private drug coverage or those who pay out-of-pocket.
2
The analysis was limited to a one-year window post-injury.
3
The study could not determine whether patients actually took the medications as prescribed.

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