Measuring and reducing unnecessary medication prescriptions in older adults

The Development, Validation, and Application of a Claims-based Metric of Low Value Prescribing in Older Adults

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10684898

This study is looking at how to make sure older adults, 65 and up, are only getting the medications they really need, by finding ways to cut down on unnecessary prescriptions and making sure everyone's opinions are heard, so that their care is safer and better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10684898 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on identifying and reducing low-value prescribing practices among adults aged 65 and older. It aims to develop a new metric that evaluates medications based on their benefits versus costs and harms, incorporating insights from patients, healthcare providers, and payers. By analyzing claims data, the study seeks to create a systematic approach to measure and address unnecessary prescriptions, ultimately improving medication safety and reducing healthcare waste. The goal is to enhance the quality of care for older adults while ensuring their perspectives are considered.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who are currently taking multiple medications.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those not on multiple medications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer medication practices and reduced healthcare costs for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in reducing low-value healthcare services, but this specific approach to medication prescribing is novel.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.