What we know
Cessation of non-essential or inappropriate medications (deprescribing) is not the same as withdrawal of treatment or the decision not to initiate curative or potentially life prolonging treatments. Deprescribing is the process of identifying and discontinuing treatments so that the benefits of treatments outweigh any adverse effects. These decisions are made in the context of an individual’s goals of care, level of functioning, life expectancy, values, and preferences. Sensitive discussion should precede any deprescribing as the discontinuation of a long-standing medication may cause distress to both the person and close relatives.