"A better system" - managing the adverse effects of prescribed medicines: Cluster-randomised controlled trial and process evaluation of the ADRe Profile in primary care.

In 30 seconds

This cluster-randomized controlled trial evaluated the ADRe Profile's effectiveness in managing adverse drug reactions among patients aged ≥65 on multiple long-term medications in primary care. Conducted in South-West Wales, the study found that 82% of intervention patients had multiple problems addressed compared to 35% in the control group (adjusted odds ratio 7.48).

Key findings

• 82% of intervention patients had multiple problems addressed compared to 35% in the control group.
• All intervention patients either benefited or expected to benefit from referrals.
• Fewer patients reported pain by the study's end (16/27 vs 24/27).

Why it matters

This study highlights the importance of systematic monitoring of prescribed medications in older adults, which can significantly reduce the risk of adverse drug reactions and improve patient outcomes in primary care settings.