ĐA BỆNH ĐA THUỐC Ở NGƯỜI CAO TUỔI: THỰC TRẠNG VÀ GIẢI PHÁP

Abstract

Objective: This narrative review aims to provide an updated overview of the current issues of multimorbidity and polypharmacy among the Vietnamese elderly, evaluate their clinical impacts, and propose preventive approaches to enhance safe medication management.

Methods: The search strategy combined relevant keywords related to multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and geriatric care. This review incorporates 28 publications in total, comprising15 studies conducted in Vietnam and 13 international studies published between 2016 and 2026.

Key Findings & Strategies: A transition from a “disease-oriented” to a “comprehensive, patient-centered care” model is required. Key strategies include: Comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), individualized treatment based on patient preferences, proactively deprescribing using criteria such as Beers or STOPP/START, and fostering multidisciplinary team (MDT) collaboration.

Conclusion: Implementing a holistic approach and proactive management tools is essential to ensure treatment safety and improve overall health outcomes for the elderly. Future research should focus on evaluating the prevalence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy among the elderly on a national scale and assessing patient-important clinical outcomes. Furthermore, validation studies are required to adapt international screening tools (such as the Beers or STOPP/START criteria) to fully align with Vietnam’s drug formulary and prescribing practices.