Deprescribing benzodiazepine receptor agonists in older adults: a mixed-methods study to adapt the Canadian D-PRESCRIBE intervention to the Belgian community setting

Abstract

Objective Guidelines recommend deprescribing benzodiazepine receptor agonists (BZRA) in older adults, yet implementation in clinical practice remains limited. Adapting effective, evidence-based interventions to a new context is a resource-saving strategy. In Canada, the D-PRESCRIBE intervention comprised a patient educational brochure and a pharmaceutical opinion inviting physicians to revise BZRA prescribing and consider safer alternatives. Due to its effectiveness on BZRA deprescribing among Canadian older adults, we aimed to adapt the D-PRESCRIBE intervention to the Belgian community setting.Design Recommendations from the ADAPT guidance, that provides a systematic approach for adapting interventions to new contexts, were followed. We conducted a mixed-methods study that comprised (1) group discussions and cognitive interviews to assess the acceptability and need for adaptation of the intervention’s components and (2) a survey on the adapted pharmaceutical opinion. A research committee involving stakeholders’ representatives decided on the adaptations, respecting the core functions of both tools. Changes in intervention components were reported following the Model for Adaptation Design and Impact framework.Setting Belgian French-speaking community setting.Participants Six older adults (≥65 years), six general practitioners (GPs) and seven pharmacists participated in the group discussions or interviews. 46 GPs and 91 pharmacists responded to the survey.Results Participants welcomed the brochure positively. Still, some changes in the vocabulary, wording, photos and icons were made for several purposes including making the patient feel concerned about the brochure and softening the use of fear. The pharmaceutical opinion aroused mixed perceptions. Its name, layout and content were adapted to enhance its acceptability and fit with our healthcare system, practices and national guidelines. The survey highlighted several enablers and barriers to its use from the perspectives of GP and pharmacist.Conclusions The Canadian D-PRESCRIBE intervention was adapted to the Belgian setting following a thorough and transparent process. Its feasibility will be tested in a future pilot study (NCT:05929417).