Nonpharmacological Aspects of Deprescribing

Abstract

This chapter discusses the possible psychological and social impacts of deprescribing that may emerge when initiating a course of deprescribing. These may include anticipated reactions from family members, treaters, and systems, each of which deserves addressing in the context of the intervention in order to best facilitate deprescribing. These reactions may include real and imagined consequences for a patient, family and friends, treater, and systems (such as altered access to resources/entitlements). By understanding and considering these nonpharmacological aspects of the intervention, prescribers may better anticipate otherwise unforeseen pitfalls in the process. Strategies for eliciting and addressing these concerns are discussed.