The overall goal of this research is to develop and test strategies to decrease potentially inappropriate medication use among the elderly.
Specifically, the purpose of the study is to determine whether direct patient education is effective in decreasing benzodiazepine use in seniors.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
HEALTH_SERVICES_RESEARCH
Masking
TRIPLE
Participants in the intervention group will receive an 8-page booklet that includes a list of generic and brand benzodiazepine names, benzodiazepine medication knowledge test, information about the associated risks of benzodiazepine use, and a list of safe alternative to their potentially inappropriate medication, as well as a stepwise tapering method. Recommendations to discuss decreasing use of benzodiazepines with physicians as well as to consult physicians before stopping any medication are also advised in the booklet. Participants in the control group will receive a booklet, produced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, containing information regarding the important of exercise for seniors.
Benzodiazepine or non-benzodiazepine hypnotic medication use
Proportion of subjects using benzodiazepine or non-benzodiazepine hypnotic medication (such as zolpidem)
Time frame: Baseline and 6 months post-intervention
Patient attempt to discontinuing benzodiazepine
Novel patient reported measure regarding attempts to discontinue medication
Time frame: 1 month and 6 months post-intervention
Patient knowledge regarding benzodiazepines
Novel patient reported measure regarding knowledge of the potential risks and benefits of benzodiazepines
Time frame: Baseline and 6 months post-intervention
Belief about Medicines Questionnaire (BMQ)
This is a validated instrument assessing patient beliefs regarding medication efficacy and safety
Time frame: Baseline and 6 months post-intervention
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