Question

A 68-year-old woman in residential aged care is taking ten regular medicines including an ACE inhibitor, statin, long-acting benzodiazepine, oxycodone, metformin, a proton pump inhibitor and multiple supplements. She has had two falls in the last 3 months and complains of daytime sedation. According to the RACGP Silver Book, what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Perform a structured medication review focusing on deprescribing high-risk medicines

Answer

Continue current medicines but add a calcium supplement to reduce fracture risk

Answer

Cease all non-essential medicines immediately without further review

Answer

Switch the benzodiazepine to a shorter-acting agent at the same dose

Answer

Add an antipsychotic at night to improve sleep and behaviour

Practice question