Sarcopenia is associated with a greater risk of polypharmacy and number of medications: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, 2023 · DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13190 · Published: February 13, 2023

Aging Pharmacology Musculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the relationship between sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and function) and polypharmacy (use of multiple medications) in older adults. The meta-analysis revealed that older adults with sarcopenia are more likely to be on multiple medications compared to those without sarcopenia. The study suggests that polypharmacy may contribute to the progression of sarcopenia, highlighting the need for careful medication management in older adults.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

29 studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis

Evidence Level

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Key Findings

1
Sarcopenia was associated with a higher prevalence of polypharmacy (OR: 1.65, 95% CI [1.23, 2.20], I2 = 84%, P < 0.01).
2
Sarcopenia was associated with a higher number of medications (mean difference: 1.39, 95% CI [0.59, 2.19], I2 = 95%, P < 0.01).
3
The association between sarcopenia and polypharmacy seems to be significant among outpatients and community dwellers, but not in hospitalized people and nursing home patients.

Research Summary

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the association between sarcopenia and polypharmacy/number of medications in older adults. The analysis of 29 studies revealed a significantly increased risk of polypharmacy and higher number of medications in people with sarcopenia compared to those without sarcopenia. The study highlights the need for future research to clarify whether specific medications contribute to the progression of muscle wasting and dysfunction in sarcopenia.

Practical Implications

Medication Review

Healthcare providers should carefully review the medication lists of older adults with sarcopenia to identify potentially inappropriate medications.

Deprescribing Strategies

Implementation of deprescribing strategies may be beneficial in improving nutritional status and decelerating the progression of sarcopenia.

Further Research

Future studies should investigate the specific medications that may contribute to muscle wasting in sarcopenic individuals.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of detailed information on the categories of medications used.
2
The cross-sectional nature of many included studies limits the ability to establish causality.
3
High heterogeneity among studies, only a limited part of which could be explained by meta-regression analysis.

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