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Medicines use in older people

Older people over 75 may have several chronic conditions and need multiple medicines. This can put them at risk of medicines-related harm. This chapter of the Fourth Australian Atlas of Healthcare Variation examines polypharmacy, medication management reviews and proton pump inhibitor dispensing in older people.

Medicines Dispensing

The Atlas series examines variation in use of some commonly prescribed medicines. Medicines are effective when used appropriately for the right duration. However, substantial variation in use can suggest that some individuals and the community are being exposed to avoidable harms and unnecessary costs, while others may be missing out on an effective treatment.

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