Meds75+

The purpose of the Meds75+ database of medication for older persons is to support the clinical decision-making on the pharmacotherapy of persons over 75 years of age and to improve medication safety in primary health care. The database contains classification and recommendation for almost 500 drug substances or their combination when used in older persons.

The Meds75+ database is maintained by the Finnish Medicines Agency, Fimea. The database is available free of charge on Fimea’s website.

Content of the database

Like in other health care databases, the drug substances are classified into categories A, B, C and D. The category indicates how suitable the substance is for persons over 75 years of age. The categories are based on a multidisciplinary clinical consensus.

• A (green):

Suitable for older persons. Drug substance can be used as in younger patients. Changes due to aging do not affect the dose or dosing frequency. Adverse effects are not different from that of younger patients.

• B (grey):

Present evidence or experience on use in older persons is vague or efficacy of the drug substance is insufficient.

• C (yellow):

Suitable for older persons, with specific cautions. Drug substance can be used with consideration. Dose or dosing frequency must be adjusted due to age-related changes and/or decreased renal function. A significant risk of interactions or adverse effects may be associated with the use of substance.

• D (red):

Avoid use in older persons. Risk of adverse effects typically exceeds the benefits. Can be used only in exceptional cases.

The legend for each substance contains information on the effects and dosing of the substance and the most typical adverse reactions and interactions. The legend does not contain indications or contraindications.

Commonly used criteria on inappropriate medication for older persons (Beers, STOPP/START, EU(7)-PIM) were taken into account in composing the database. 

Using the database in health care

The database is primarily intended for physicians and other health care professionals. It must be borne in mind that individual cases might require the use of category D medicinal products. The pharmacotherapy must be started, changed or discontinued under the supervision of a physician.

Database:

Meds75+ database
Meds75+ (schema and info)
Meds75+ (XML)

Download logo:

Meds75+ (zip package)

Logos are not allowed to use in commercially. More information: communications@fimea.fi.