Strategies, challenges, and regulatory implications for safe medication management in Alzheimer's disease: A scoping review

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-4-2026

Publication Title

Journal of Nursing Regulation

Abstract

Background: Medication management for individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is complex and often delegated to informal caregivers (or “carers”), creating significant safety risks and emotional burden. Fragmented care processes and polypharmacy further exacerbate these challenges, emphasizing the need for system-level interventions. Purpose: This scoping review aimed to map the extent and nature of evidence on strategies, interventions, and barriers related to safe medication management for individuals with AD and their caregivers across all care settings. Methods: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, we searched databases and grey literature sources. Eligible studies included primary research and reviews addressing medication management in AD. Data were extracted using a standardized form and synthesized narratively and are reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. Results: Thirty-three studies met inclusion criteria. Quantitative designs predominated (54.5 %), with most studies conducted in North America or Europe. Four interconnected themes emerged: (1) caregiver burden and role transitions; (2) effectiveness of multidisciplinary interventions, particularly pharmacist-enabled models; (3) pervasive safety challenges, including polypharmacy and transitions of care, and risk mitigation strategies; and (4) setting-specific considerations. Reported outcomes included adherence, safety indicators, caregiver burden, quality of life, and healthcare utilization. Interventions improved adherence, reduced inappropriate medications, and alleviated caregiver strain, while barriers included limited training and poor communication. Conclusion: Safe medication management in AD requires structured, team-based approaches, robust handoff communication, and caregiver education. This study's findings align with emerging patient safety standards, emphasizing medication reconciliation, staffing adequacy, and system-level accountability. Future research should evaluate technology-enabled strategies and interventions that target high-risk transitions to advance medication safety and caregiver support.

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS