Researchers from The University of Western Australia are helping develop clinical practice guidelines for deprescribing medications to people aged 65 years and older.

Deprescribing is the process of reducing or stopping medicines when they may no longer be necessary or when the potential risks of continuing the medication outweigh the potential benefits.

PhD candidate Amanda Quek, Dr Amy Page and Dr Kenneth Lee, from UWA’s School of Allied Health, and Professor Christopher Etherton-Beer, from UWA’s Medical School, are collaborating on the guidelines with healthcare professionals, consumers and carers.

“If you’ve been taking multiple medications for a long time, you may not be aware of deprescribing,” Ms Quek said.

“As we age, some medications may start doing more harm than good – and sometimes, less can be better.

“Deprescribing requires a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s life stage, medical history, current health, prognosis, the nature of the condition and the characteristics of the available medicines.”

The team is inviting public comment on the draft recommendations to help develop the final guidelines.

“We value the diverse perspectives, experiences and knowledge of all stakeholders and interested members of the community,” Ms Quek said.

The guidelines aim to empower prescribers as they navigate the complex process of deprescribing.

It will serve as a resource to assist clinical decision-making in partnership with individuals, their families and carers.

Visit deprescribing.com to review and share your feedback on the guidelines from April 24 to May 31, 2025. The survey should take 15 minutes to complete.

For general inquiries, please contact deprescribing@uwa.edu.au.