Pharmacist-Led Reviews and Automated Algorithms Cut Inappropriate Medications

This systematic review of 17 randomized trials clarifies which deprescribing strategies actually reduce potentially inappropriate medications in primary care older adults, positioning pharmacist-led review as a top-performing approach.

deprescribingpotentially inappropriate medicationspolypharmacyolder adultsprimary carepharmacist-led medication reviewclinical decision supportsystematic reviewgeriatricsSTOPP/STARTBeers Criteria Geriatrics / Geriatric Pharmacy

Background Information

Automated and pharmacist-led deprescribing curbs unsafe drug use in seniors.

Deprescribing is critical in managing polypharmacy and reducing the risks associated with potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in older adults. Automated algorithms and pharmacist-led interventions significantly reduced PIMs, while multidisciplinary approaches and educational activities had mixed results. No intervention significantly impacted mortality. Pharmacist-led and automated interventions may be effective tools in primary health care settings to minimize inappropriate medication use among older adults. Standardizing outcomes is necessary for future research. Pharmacist-led and automated interventions can reduce inappropriate medication use in older adults.

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Authors: Oliveira EM, Ferreira LC, Silva MC, Hattori WT

Citation: Oliveira EM, Ferreira LC, Silva MC, et al. Optimizing Medication Use in Older Adults in Primary Care: A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Deprescribing Interventions. Geriatrics & gerontology international. 2026;26(7):e70677. doi:10.1111/ggi.70677

Article Links: PubMed · Journal / DOI · Free Full Text (PMC)

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Executive Summary

Study Design

Patient Population

Primary Outcomes

Secondary Outcomes & Safety Profile

Pharmacist Implications

Clinical Pearls

Limitations

Controversies & Evidence Gaps

Cost & Logistics

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