Beers Criteria (Beers List) 2019: Drugs to avoid or use with caution in older adults
Every few years the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) revises its list of drugs to use carefully (or not at all) in persons aged 65 or older. The latest revision was published January 2019 (press release). AGS, through its Health in Aging Foundation (HealthinAging.org), also published information for patients and caregivers. While many of the drugs by prescription in the U.S., some are over the counter.
It's a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if drugs you are taking are on this list, especially if you are over 65. But check with your doctor before stopping a prescription drug. Some are dangerous to stop abruptly, and some may need to be replaced with alternatives. Or it may be important to continue the drug despite its risks or side effects.
Patients and others may want to start with a 5-page summary by the American Geriatrics Society, Ten Medications Older Adults Should Avoid Or Use With Caution. The full list for medical professionals is the American Geriatrics Society 2019 Updated AGS Beers Criteria® for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults.
Notes:
- The Beers Criteria list uses generic names of the drugs. If you have the brand name instead, search for it online with your phone or computer to find the generic name.
- The list may be most useful if it can explain side effects you are having. Your doctor may be able to substitute a drug you can tolerate better.
- There are different parts of the Beers List, and not all recommendations are equally strong. Usually 'Avoid' (with no exceptions listed) is the strongest.
- Be diplomatic. Many people including doctors don't like to have their judgment questioned. Doctors must consider many pros and cons of a treatment plan; it's not necessarily an error if they prescribe one of the listed drugs to someone 65 or older.
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