Evaluatie van de informatiebronnen voor het bewaken van anticholinerge effecten in de farmacotherapie

Monitoring anticholinergic effects in pharmacotherapy: an evaluation of information sources Objective: This study focused on information sources accessible to healthcare providers for assessing the anticholinergic burden. It aims to raise awareness about anticholinergic effects and their potential impact on the health of elderly patients. Methodology: The methodology involved a literature review, a detailed analysis of leaflets, a comparison of anticholinergic risk scales, and an evaluation of the most widely used interaction software in Belgian community pharmacies. Results and discussion: This evaluation confirms both the usefulness and the variability and limitations of the available information sources. Leaflets are not standardized, making it difficult to find relevant information. Anticholinergic risk scales are heterogeneous, have diverse inclusion criteria, and lack extensive clinical validation. Additionally, interaction software has significant limitations and often fails to recognize the cumulative effects of anticholinergic medications. Conclusion: Pharmaceutical care for patients can be enhanced by using various information sources on anticholinergic burden, provided that healthcare professionals have a thorough understanding of each source’s strengths and weaknesses.