[Observational study on the use of medications potentially worsening preexisting swallowing disorders in older patients after stroke].

Swallowing disorders are common in older patients, particularly following a stroke. Moreover, certain medications may exacerbate these disorders. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of such medications in patients aged 65 years or over with swallowing disorders hospitalized in a post-stroke unit. An observational study was conducted in a geriatric hospital among patients aged 65 years or over admitted for stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). A literature review was first carried out to identify potentially iatrogenic medications. The primary outcome was the prevalence of the use of these medications within 14 days following the assessment of swallowing function. Among the 284 patients included, 113 (39.8%) had swallowing disorders, of whom 110 (97.3%) were taking one or more medications likely to worsen the condition (mean 4.7 ± 2.3 medications). The three most commonly identified medications were amlodipine (9.6%), oxazepam (9.3%), and aspirin (8.7%). The main mechanism involved was dry mouth. These medications are frequently prescribed for the management of risk factors and sequelae following stroke or TIA, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary evaluation of their benefit-risk balance.