Medication nonadherence secondary to drug-induced memory loss.
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition in the elderly. Treatments for OAB include nonpharmacological or behavioral therapy, pharmacological therapy, and surgical therapy. Antimuscarinic agents are the current pharmacological treatment for OAB and are known to cause memory impairment. A 66-year-old female presented with memory loss secondary to the administration of oxybutynin, which resulted in medication nonadherence. Upon review of her medications, the pharmacist recommended discontinuing the oxybutynin because of the anticholinergic effects on cognition. At a three-week follow-up visit, the patient reported an improvement in memory and medication adherence. Pharmacists can play a vital role in recognizing drug-induced side effects and educating patients in an effort to improve medication adherence.
Nye
Ann Marie
AM
Department of Pharmacy Practice, Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina and Department of Family Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, USA. nyea@ecu.edu
Clinard
Valerie B
VB
Barnes
Connie L
CL
D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008333:Mandelic Acids / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D055118:Medication Adherence; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced*; D018727:Muscarinic Antagonists / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010595:Pharmacists / Q000458:organization & administration; D024382:Professional Role; D053201:Urinary Bladder, Overactive / Q000188:drug therapy
D008333:Mandelic Acids; D018727:Muscarinic Antagonists; C005419:oxybutynin