Medication regimen complexity and hospital readmissions in older cancer patients

Abstract

Introduction

Medication complexity is associated with the number of drugs, dosing frequency, dosage form, and additional instructions. Some studies have shown that high medication complexity is associated with several adverse outcomes, including hospitalization, prolonged hospital stay, readmission, and non-compliance with medication, but studies in older cancer patients are quite limited. The primary aim of this study is to determine the association between the Medication Regimen Complexity Index (MRCI) score and readmission to the hospital for any reason within 30 and 90 days. The secondary purpose was to identify the risk factors associated with the MRCI score.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with cancer who were hospitalized in the oncology services of the Süleyman Demirel University Research and Practice Hospital between June 2022 and November 2023. Patients with cancer aged > 65 years were included in the study. The MRCI was used to determine drug complexity.

Results

The median number of medications used by patients was 6 (IQR, 5-8), and the polypharmacy rate was 79.6%. The median MRCI score was 24 (IQR, 17-31). The total number of medications and age were significant predictors of the MRCI score (p < 0.05). In logistic regression models, the MRCI score was associated with readmission to hospital within 30 and 90 days. (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In older adult cancer patients, reducing medication complexity as part of medication management may be beneficial in reducing the risk of hospital readmission.