Journal of Primary Care & Community Health (Jun 2023)

Prevalence and Predictors of Excessive Polypharmacy in Geriatric Inpatients: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study in Indonesia

  • Shah Faisal,
  • Elida Zairina,
  • Surakit Nathishuwan,
  • Junaidi Khotib,
  • Susi Ari Kristina,
  • Gesnita Nugraheni

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/21501319231178595
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14

Abstract

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Objectives: To investigate the prevalence and predictors of excessive polypharmacy in geriatric inpatients in Indonesia. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 1533 inpatients over the age of 60 years at Universitas Airlangga Hospital, Indonesia. Effects of a patient’s baseline characteristics on excessive polypharmacy were evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Results: Excessive polypharmacy was observed in 133 (8.67%) patients. Ulcer (OR 8.151,95% CI 2.234-29.747, P = .001), cancer (OR 5.551, 95% CI 1.602-19.237, P = .007), and renal diseases (OR 3.710, 95% CI 1.965-7.006, P < .001) were the 3 strongest predictors of excessive polypharmacy. An association between hospital stay of more than 3 days and excessive polypharmacy was identified (OR 2.382, 95% CI 1.109-5.115, P = .026). Discussion: One in 12 elderly Indonesians was found to practice excessive polypharmacy. Several chronic conditions and increased length of hospital stay were the factors associated with excessive polypharmacy.