Yeliz ŞAHİN, Didem Dilara CANARSLAN, Mehmet SAAT, Betül ÖZGAN, Zeynep OZTURK YALCIN, Muhammed Yunus BEKTAY
Journal of Research in Pharmacy - 2026;30(4):1007-1017
Background: Medication safety in older adults is a major public health concern, as inappropriate prescribing can lead to adverse outcomes and increased healthcare burden. This study aimed to evaluate prescription appropriateness in geriatric outpatients in eastern Türkiye using BEERS and STOPP/START criteria. Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out at a Family Health Center in Ağrı from Nov 2023 to Feb 2024. Forty-six patients aged 65+ were included. Pharmacists reviewed medications using BEERS and STOPP/START criteria. Demographic, clinical, and medication data were analysed with Jamovi and SPSS. Results: The mean age of the 46 patients (18F, 28M) was 70.6 years. The average number of medications used was four, and 33% of patients had polypharmacy. Potentially inappropriate medications were identified in 37% (BEERS), 59% (START), and 28% (STOPP). Eight patients met both START and STOPP criteria. Potentially inappropriate medications were significantly associated with a higher number of comorbidities (p < 0.03) and greater number of medication (p < 0.01). The START criteria identified more potential treatment deficiencies compared with BEERS and STOPP. Conclusion: BEERS and STOPP/START criteria are essential for safe prescribing in older adults. Regular pharmacist-led medication reviews may reduce potentially inappropriate medications prevalence and enhance treatment outcomes.
