The prevalence and impact of medication-related harm in people living with dementia - a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Res Social Adm PharmJul 29, 2026 (epub)
Fiona Carabine, Carmel M Hughes, Heather E Barry
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the prevalence and impact of medication-related harm in people living with dementia (PLWD). It included 115 studies, primarily observational, revealing that adverse drug events had a prevalence ranging from 2.5% to 93.0%. Notably, antipsychotic use was associated with increased mortality (HR = 1.42; 95% CI = 1.10-1.84; p = 0.008).
Key findings
- Adverse drug events in PLWD had a prevalence ranging from 2.5% to 93.0%.
- 32 out of 55 studies reported increased risk of adverse health outcomes associated with medication use.
- Antipsychotic use was linked to increased mortality with a hazard ratio of 1.42.
Why it matters
Understanding the prevalence and consequences of medication-related harm in PLWD is crucial for clinicians to enhance patient safety. This knowledge can inform strategies for medication management and reduce adverse outcomes in this vulnerable population.