Using machine learning to improve medication management for older adults

Deprescribing Decision-Making using Machine Learning Individualized Treatment Rules to Improve CNS Polypharmacy

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11180401

This study is looking to help older adults who are taking several medications that affect the brain by using smart technology to find the best ways to safely reduce or stop those medications, making sure they still get the care they need for their health conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11180401 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on addressing the issue of polypharmacy in older adults, where patients are prescribed multiple medications that affect the central nervous system (CNS). By utilizing machine learning, the project aims to create individualized treatment rules that help determine the best approach for tapering or stopping these medications. The goal is to minimize adverse effects while ensuring that patients' underlying health conditions are managed effectively. Patients will be assessed based on their unique clinical characteristics to provide personalized medication recommendations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are currently taking three or more CNS-acting medications.

Not a fit: Patients who are not on multiple CNS medications or those who do not have any CNS-related health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective medication management for older adults, reducing the risks associated with polypharmacy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using individualized approaches to medication management, indicating that this method could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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 2026-06-09 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.