Cuidado com a pessoa idosa: uso de medicamentos e a ocorrência de incontinência urinária

Abstract

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent condition among older adults, often exacerbated by comorbidities and the continuous use of medications that affect urinary function. This study aimed to identify the medications that contribute to the occurrence of urinary incontinence in elderly patients treated at a Geriatrics Institute. It is a documentary, retrospective, and quantitative research study, based on the analysis of electronic medical records of patients aged sixty years or older. Data collection involved sociodemographic, clinical, and pharmacological variables, with the classification of drugs according to the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System. The results showed a predominance of female individuals (65.06%), self-declared mixed-race individuals (50.49%), and an average age between seventy and seventy-nine years. The simultaneous use of five or more medications was identified in 41.7% of the elderly participants. Among the medications most associated with urinary incontinence were: benzodiazepines (64.92%) and antidepressants (29.83%) within the nervous system; alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonists (43.80%) and diuretics (36.20%) within the cardiovascular system; as well as tamsulosin and doxazosin within the genitourinary system. The discussion highlights that these drugs, widely prescribed in geriatric care, have significant potential to trigger urinary incontinence, corroborating findings from international literature. The role of nursing in medication review and health education is emphasized as a key strategy for preventing and managing this condition. It is concluded that a critical review of prescriptions in older adults is necessary, with emphasis on deprescribing unnecessary medications and focusing on patient-centered care, aiming to preserve their autonomy, dignity, and quality of life.