Knowledge of prescription medications among cancer patients aged 65years and above

Abstract 

Objectives

Studies have repeatedly shown that older adults have poor medication knowledge and utilize a disproportionate share of medications. These put them at high risk for drug–drug interactions. This study aims to determine the knowledge of prescription medications among cancer patients aged ≥65years and determine the extent of safe medication practices adopted by patients. Secondary objectives include determining potential drug–drug interactions and uncovering potential areas of risk in safe medication use.

Materials and Methods

This is a cross-sectional study of patients/caregivers attending outpatient clinics at the National Cancer Centre Singapore. Patients (≥65years) taking ≥1 prescription medication at home were recruited. Patients were interviewed using structured questionnaires in a language understood by patients. Information was verified through the electronic prescription system and case notes.

Results

A total of 196 patients were included in the analysis. The mean age (S.D.) of patients was 71 (4.54) years. Patients were on an average of 4.09 medications. Seventy-four (37.7%) patients failed to report≥one of their medications. Few patients could name their medications (8.7%), were aware of precautionary instructions (23.5%) and keep a medication list (15.3%). A majority of patients correctly identified the indications for use (69.4%), prescribed doses (77.0%) and dosing frequencies (73.0%). Approximately half of the patients would read drug labels (51.0%), discard medication when no longer needed (60.7%) and check expiry dates (44.9%). About a third would check for any changes in medication/regimen associated with new prescriptions (37.8%). No clinically significant drug–drug interaction was detected.

Conclusion

Elderly patients do not possess a complete knowledge about their medications and lack practices for safe medication use.

Keywords: Elderly, Cancer, Geriatric oncology, Medication knowledge, Medication list, Medication use, Safe medication practices