TABLE 1.

2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria® for Potentially Inappropriate

Medication Use in Older Adults

From THE AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY Organ System, Therapeutic Recommendation, Rationale, Quality of Evidence
Category, Drug(s) (QE), Strength of Recommendation (SR)
A POCKET GUIDE TO THE Anticholinergics *

2019 AGS BEERS CRITERIA

First-generation Avoid
® antihistamines: Highly anticholinergic; clearance reduced with advanced age,
■ Brompheniramine and tolerance develops when used as hypnotic; risk of confusion,
This guide has been developed as a tool to assist healthcare providers in improving ■ Carbinoxamine dry mouth, constipation, and other anticholinergic effects or
■ Chlorpheniramine toxicity
medication safety in older adults. The role of this guide is to inform clinical decision-
■ Clemastine
making, research, training, quality measures and regulations concerning the prescribing of Use of diphenhydramine in situations such as acute treatment of
■ Cyproheptadine
medications for older adults to improve safety and quality of care. It is based on The 2019 severe allergic reaction may be appropriate
■ Dexbrompheniramine
AGS Beers Criteria® for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults. QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
■ Dexchlorpheniramine
Originally conceived of in 1991 by the late Mark Beers, MD, a geriatrician, the Beers ■ Dimenhydrinate
Criteria catalogues medications that cause side effects in older adults due to the ■ Diphenhydramine (oral)
physiologic changes of aging. In 2011, the AGS sponsored its first update of the criteria, ■ Doxylamine
assembling a team of experts and using an enhanced, evidence-based methodology. ■ Hydroxyzine
Since 2011, the AGS has been the steward of the criteria and has produced updates ■ Meclizine
■ Promethazine
using an evidence-based methodology and rating each Criterion (quality of evidence
■ Pyrilamine
and strength of evidence) using the American College of Physicians’ Guideline Grading
■ Triprolidine
System, which is based on the GRADE scheme developed by Guyatt et al.
Antiparkinsonian agents Avoid
The full document, along with accompanying resources, can be found in its entirety online ■ Benztropine (oral) Not recommended for prevention of extrapyramidal symptoms
at geriatricscareonline.org. ■ Trihexyphenidyl with antipsychotics; more effective agents available for
treatment of Parkinson disease
INTENDED USE
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
The goal of this guide is to improve care of older adults by reducing their exposure to Antispasmodics: Avoid
Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIMs). ■ Atropine (excludes Highly anticholinergic, uncertain effectiveness
■ This should be viewed as a guideline for identifying medications for which the risks ophthalmic) QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
■ Belladonna alkaloids
of their use in older adults outweigh the benefits.
■ Clidinium-
■ These criteria are not meant to be applied in a punitive manner.
Chlordiazepoxide
■ This list is not meant to supersede clinical judgment or an individual patient’s values
■ Dicyclomine
and needs. Prescribing and managing disease conditions should be individualized ■ Homatropine (excludes
and involve shared decision-making. ophthalmic)
■ These criteria also underscore the importance of using a team approach to ■ Hyoscyamine
prescribing and the use of non-pharmacological approaches and of having ■ Methscopolamine
economic and organizational incentives for this type of model. ■ Propantheline
■ A companion piece that addresses the best way for patients, providers, and health ■ Scopolamine
systems to use (and not use) the AGS Beers Criteria® was also developed. The Antithrombotics
document can be found on geriatricscareonline.org.
■ Dipyridamole, oral Avoid
The criteria are not applicable in all circumstances (i.e. patients receiving palliative and short-acting (does not Rationale: May cause orthostatic hypotension; more effective
hospice care). If a provider is not able to find an alternative and chooses to continue to apply to the extended- alternatives available; IV form acceptable for use in cardiac
use a drug on this list in an individual patient, designation of the medication as potentially release combination stress testing
inappropriate can serve as a reminder for close monitoring so that adverse drug effects with aspirin) QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
can be incorporated into the electronic health record and prevented or detected early.

*See also criterion on highly anticholinergic antidepressants

CNS=central nervous system; NSAIDs=nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; SIADH, syndrome of

AGS THE AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY

Geriatrics Health Professionals.
inappropriate antidiuretic hormone.
✃

Leading change. Improving care for older adults.

PAGE 1 PAGE 2 Table 1 (continued on page 3)

 Table 1 Continued Table 1 Continued
Organ System, Therapeutic Organ System, Therapeutic
Category, Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR Category, Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR
Anti-infective Digoxin for first-line Avoid this rate control agent as first-line therapy for atrial
■ Nitrofurantoin Avoid in individuals with creatinine clearance <30 mL/min or treatment of atrial fibrillation. Avoid as first-line therapy for heart failure. If used
for long-term suppression fibrillation or of heart for atrial fibrillation or heart failure, avoid dosages >0.125 mg/d
failure Use in atrial fibrillation: should not be used as a first-line agent
Potential for pulmonary toxicity, hepatoxicity, and peripheral
neuropathy, especially with long-term use; safer alternatives available in atrial fibrillation, because there are safer and more effective
alternatives for rate control supported by high-quality evidence.
QE = Low; SR = Strong
Use in heart failure: evidence for benefits and harms of digoxin is
conflicting and of lower quality; most but not all of the evidence
Cardiovascular
concerns use in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Peripheral alpha-1 Avoid use as an antihypertensive (HFrEF). There is strong evidence for other agents as first-line
blockers for treatment of High risk of orthostatic hypotension and associated harms, therapy to reduce hospitalizations and mortality in adults wiht
hypertension especially in older adults; not recommended as routine HFrEF. In heart failure, higher dosages are not associated with
■ Doxazosin treatment for hypertension; alternative agents have superior additional benefit and may increase toxicity.
■ Prazosin risk/benefit profile Decreased renal clearance of digoxin may lead to increased
■ Terazosin
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong risk of toxic effects; further dose reduction may be necessary in
Central-alpha agonists Avoid clonidine as first-line antihypertensive. Avoid other CNS those with Stage 4 or 5 chronic kidney disease.
Clonidine for first-line alpha-agonists as listed QE = Atrial fibrillation: Low. Heart failure: Low.
treatment of hypertension High risk of adverse CNS effects; may cause bradycardia and Dosage >0.125 mg/d: Moderate; SR = Atrial fibrillation: Strong.
Heart failure: Strong. Dosage >0.125 mg/d: Strong
Other CNS alpha-agonists orthostatic hypotension; not recommended as routine treatment
■ Guanabenz for hypertension Nifedipine, immediate Avoid
■ Guanfacine QE = Low; SR = Strong release Potential for hypotension; risk of precipitating myocardial
■ Methyldopa ischemia
■ Reserpine (>0.1 mg/d) QE = High; SR = Strong
Disopyramide Avoid
May induce heart failure in older adults because of potent Amiodarone Avoid as first-line therapy for atrial fibrillation unless the patient
negative inotropic action; strongly anticholinergic; other has heart failure or substantial left ventricular hypertrophy
antiarrhythmic drugs preferred
Effective for maintaining sinus rhythm but has greater toxicities
QE = Low; SR = Strong than other antiarrhythmics used in atrial fibrillation; may be
reasonable first-line therapy in patients with concomitant heart
Dronedarone Avoid in individuals with permanent atrial fibrillation or severe
failure or substantial left ventricular hypertrophy if rhythm
or recently decompensated heart failure
control is preferred over rate control
Worse outcomes have been reported in patients taking
QE = High; SR = Strong
dronedarone who have permanent atrial fibrillation or severe or
recently decompensated heart failure Central nervous system
QE = High; SR = Strong Antidepressants, alone or Avoid
in combination: Highly anticholinergic, sedating, and cause orthostatic
■ Amitriptyline hypotension; safety profile of low-dose doxepin (≤6 mg/d)
■ Amoxapine comparable to that of placebo
■ Clomipramine
QE = High; SR = Strong
■ Desipramine
■ Doxepin >6 mg/d
■ Imipramine
■ Nortriptyline
■ Paroxetine
■ Protriptyline
■ Trimipramine
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PAGE 3 Table 1 (continued on page 4) PAGE 4 Table 1 (continued on page 5)

Table 1 Continued Table 1 Continued
Organ System, Therapeutic Organ System, Therapeutic
Category, Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR Category, Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR
Antipsychotics, first- Avoid, except in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or for short- Ergoloid mesylates Avoid
(conventional) and term use as antiemetic during chemotherapy (dehydrogenated ergot Lack of efficacy
second- (atypical) Increased risk of cerebrovascular accident (stroke) and greater alkaloids) QE = High; SR = Strong
generation rate of cognitive decline and mortality in persons with dementia Isoxsuprine
Avoid antipsychotics for behavioral problems of dementia or Endocrine
delirium unless nonpharmacological options (e.g., behavioral Androgens Avoid unless indicated for confirmed hypogonadism with
interventions) have failed or are not possible and the older adult ■ Methyltestosterone clinical symptoms
is threatening substantial harm to self or others ■ Testosterone Potential for cardiac problems; contraindicated in men with
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong prostate cancer
Barbiturates Avoid QE = Moderate; SR = Weak
■ Amobarbital High rate of physical dependence, tolerance to sleep benefits, Desiccated thyroid Avoid
■ Butabarbital greater risk of overdose at low dosages
■ Butalbital Concerns about cardiac effects; safer alternatives available
QE = High; SR = Strong QE = Low; SR = Strong
■ Mephobarbital
■ Pentobarbital Estrogens with or without Avoid systemic estrogen (eg, oral and topical patch). Vaginal
■ Phenobarbital progestins cream or vaginal tablets: acceptable to use low-dose
■ Secobarbital intravaginal estrogen for management of dyspareunia, recurrent
Benzodiazepines Avoid lower urinary tract infections, and other vaginal symptoms
Short- and intermediate- Older adults have increased sensitivity to benzodiazepines and Evidence of carcinogenic potential (breast and endometrium);
acting: decreased metabolism of long-acting agents; in general, all lack of cardioprotective effect and cognitive protection in older
■ Alprazolam women.
benzodiazepines increase risk of cognitive impairment, delirium,
■ Estazolam
falls, fractures, and motor vehicle crashes in older adults Evidence indicates that vaginal estrogens for the treatment of
■ Lorazepam
May be appropriate for seizure disorders, rapid eye movement vaginal dryness are safe and effective; women with a history of
■ Oxazepam
sleep behavior disorder, benzodiazepine withdrawal, ethanol breast cancer who do not respond to nonhormonal therapies
■ Temazepam
withdrawal, severe generalized anxiety disorder, and are advised to discuss the risk and benefits of low-dose vaginal
■ Triazolam
periprocedural anesthesia estrogen (dosages of estradiol <25 mcg twice weekly) with their
Long-acting: healthcare provider
■ Chlordiazepoxide (alone
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Oral and patch: High. Vaginal cream or tablets: Moderate.;
or in combination SR = Oral and patch: Strong. Topical vaginal cream or tablets: Weak
with amitriptyline or
clidinium) Growth hormone Avoid, except for patients rigorously diagnosed by evidence-based
■ Clonazepam
criteria with growth hormone deficiency due to an established
■ Clorazepate
etiology
■ Diazepam Impact on body composition is small and associated with edema,
■ Flurazepam arthralgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, gynecomastia, impaired fasting
■ Quazepam glucose
Meprobamate Avoid QE = High; SR = Strong
High rate of physical dependence; sedating Insulin, sliding scale Avoid
(insulin regimens Higher risk of hypoglycemia without improvement in hyperglycemia
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
containing only short- or management regardless of care setting; Avoid insulin regimens that
Nonbenzodiazepine, Avoid rapid-acting insulin dosed include only short- or rapid-acting insulin dosed according to current
benzodiazepine receptor Nonbenzodiazepine benzodiazepine-receptor agonist hypnotics according to current blood glucose levels without concurrent use of basal or long-acting
agonist hypnotics (ie, “Z drugs”) have adverse events similar to those of blood gluclose levels insulin. This recommendation does not apply to regimens that contain
(ie, “Z-drugs”) benzodiazepines in older adults (e.g., delirium, falls, fractures); without concurrent use basal insulin or long-acting insulin.
■ Eszopiclone increased emergency room visits/hospitalizations; motor vehicle of basal or long-acting
■ Zaleplon
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
crashes; minimal improvement in sleep latency and duration insulin)
■ Zolpidem
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong Megestrol Avoid
Minimal effect on weight; increases risk of thrombotic events
and possibly death in older adults
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
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PAGE 5 Table 1 (continued on page 6) PAGE 6 Table 1 (continued on page 7)

Table 1 Continued Table 1 Continued
Organ System, Therapeutic Organ System, Therapeutic
Category, Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR Category, Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR
Sulfonylureas, long-acting Avoid ■ Indomethacin Avoid
■ Chlorpropamide Chlorpropamide: prolonged half-life in older adults; can cause ■ Ketorolac, includes Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding/peptic ulcer disease,
■ Glimeperide prolonged hypoglycemia; causes SIADH parenteral and acute kidney injury in older adults
■ Glyburide (also known Indomethacin is more likely than other NSAIDs to have adverse
Glimepiride and Glyburide: higher risk of severe prolonged
as glibenclamide) hypoglycemia in older adults CNS effects. Of all the NSAIDs, indomethacin has the most
adverse effects.
QE = High; SR = Strong QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Gastrointestinal Skeletal muscle relaxants Avoid
Metoclopramide Avoid, unless for gastroparesis with duration of use not to ■ Carisoprodol Most muscle relaxants poorly tolerated by older adults because
exceed 12 weeks except in rare cases ■ Chlorzoxazone some have anticholinergic adverse effects, sedation, increased
■ Cyclobenzaprine risk of fractures; effectiveness at dosages tolerated by older
Can cause extrapyramidal effects, including tardive dyskinesia; ■ Metaxalone adults questionable
risk may be greater in frail older adults and with prolonged ■ Methocarbamol
exposure ■ Orphenadrine
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong Genitourinary
Mineral oil, given orally Avoid Desmopressin Avoid for treatment of nocturia or nocturnal polyuria
Potential for aspiration and adverse effects; safer alternatives High risk of hyponatremia; safer alternative treatments
available QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Proton-pump inhibitors Avoid scheduled use for >8 weeks unless for high-risk patients TABLE 2. 2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria® for Potentially Inappropriate
(e.g., oral corticosteroids or chronic NSAID use), erosive Medication Use in Older Adults Due to Drug–Disease or Drug–Syndrome Interactions That
esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagitis, pathological hypersecretory May Exacerbate the Disease or Syndrome
condition, or demonstrated need for maintenance treatment
(e.g., because of failure of drug discontinuation trial or H2- Recommendation, Rationale,
receptor antagonists Disease or Quality of Evidence (QE), Strength
Risk of C difficile infection and bone loss and fractures Syndrome Drug(s) of Recommendation (SR)
QE = High; SR = Strong Cardiovascular
Pain medications Heart failure Avoid: Cilostazol As noted, avoid or use with caution
Meperidine Avoid Avoid in heart failure with Potential to promote fluid retention
Oral analgesic not effective in dosages commonly used; may reduced ejection fraction: Non- and/or exacerbate heart failure
have higher risk of neurotoxicity, including delirium, than other dihydropyridine CCBs (diltiazem, (NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors,
opioids; safer alternatives available verapamil) non-dihydropyridine CCBs,
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong Use with caution in patients with thiazoildinediones); potential to
Non-cyclooxygenase- Avoid chronic use, unless other alternatives are not effective heart failure who are asymptomatic; increase mortality in older adults
selective NSAIDs, oral: and patient can take gastroprotective agent (proton-pump avoid in patients with symptomatic with heart failure (cilostazol and
■ Aspirin >325 mg/d inhibitor or misoprostol) heart failure: dronedarone)
■ Diclofenac Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors QE = Cilostazol: Low Non-
■ Diflunisal disease in high-risk groups, including those aged >75 or taking
■ Etodolac
dihydropyridine CCBs: Moderate
oral or parenteral corticosteroids, anticoagulants, or antiplatelet Thiazolidinediones (pioglitazone,
■ Fenoprofen NSAIDs: Moderate COX-2 inhibitors:
agents; use of proton-pump inhibitor or misoprostol reduces rosiglitazone)
■ Ibuprofen but does not eliminate risk. Upper gastrointestinal ulcers, gross Low. Thiazolidinediones: High.
■ Ketoprofen Dronedarone Dronedarone: High; SR = Strong
bleeding, or perforation caused by NSAIDs occur in ~1% of
■ Meclofenamate patients treated for 3–6 months and in ~2–4% of patients treated
■ Mefenamic acid for 1 year; these trends continue with longer duration of use.
■ Meloxicam Also can increase blood pressure and induce kidney injury. Risks *See Table 7 in full criteria available on www.geriatricscareonline.org.
■ Nabumetone are dose-related.
■ Naproxen
a
May be required to treat concurrent schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other selected mental health conditions but
■ Oxaprozin
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong should be prescribed in the lowest effective dose and shortest possible duration.
■ Piroxicam
b
Excludes inhaled and topical forms. Oral and parenteral corticosteroids may be required for conditions such as
■ Sulindac exacerbation of COPD but should be prescribed in the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible duration.
■ Tolmetin
CCB=calcium channel blocker; AChEI=acetylcholinesterase inhibitor; CNS=central nervous system;
COX=cyclooxygenase; NSAIDs=nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug; SNRI=serotoninnorepinephrine
reuptake inhibitor; SSRI=selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor; TCAs=tricyclic antidepressant.
✃

PAGE 7 Table 1 (continued on page 8) PAGE 8 Table 2 (continued on page 9)

Table 2 Continued
Disease or
Syndrome Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR
Syncope Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors Avoid
(AChEIs) AChEIs cause bradycardia and should
Non-selective peripheral alpha-1 be avoided in older adults whose
blockers (ie, doxazosin, prazosin, syncope may be due to bradycardia.
terazosin) Non-selective peripheral alpha-1
Tertiary TCAs blockers cause orthostatic blood
Antipsychotics pressure changes and should be
■ Chlorpromazine avoided in older adults whose syncope
■ Thioridazine may be due to orthostatic hypotension.
■ Olanzapine Tertiary TCAs and the antipsychotics
listed increase the risk of orthostatic
hypotension or bradycardia.
QE = AChEIs, TCAs and antipsychotics:
High. Non-selective peripheral alpha-1
blockers: High; SR = AChEIs, TCAs:
Strong. Non-selective peripheral
alpha-1 blockers, antipsychotics: Weak
Central nervous system
Delirium Anticholinergics* Avoid
Antipsychoticsa Avoid in older adults with or at high
Benzodiazepines risk of delirium because of potential of
Corticosteroids (oral and inducing or worsening delirium
parenteral)b Avoid antipsychotics for behavioral
H2-receptor antagonists problems of dementia and/or delirium
■ Cimetidine unless nonpharmacological options
■ Famotidine (e.g., behavioral interventions) have
■ Nizatidine failed or are not possible and the
■ Ranitidine older adult is threatening substantial
Meperidine harm to self or others. Antipsychotics
Nonbenzodiazepine, are associated with greater risk of
benzodiazepine receptor agonist cerebrovascular accident (stroke) and
mortality in persons with dementia
hypnotics: eszopiclone, zaleplon,
zolpidem QE = H2-receptor antagonists: Low.
All others: Moderate; SR = Strong
Dementia Anticholinergics* Avoid
or cognitive Benzodiazepines Avoid because of adverse CNS effects
impairment
Nonbenzodiazepine, Avoid antipsychotics for behavioral
benzodiazepine receptor agonist problems of dementia and/or delirium
hypnotics unless nonpharmacological options
■ Eszopiclone (e.g., behavioral interventions) have
■ Zaleplon failed or are not possible and the
■ Zolpidem older adult is threatening substantial
Antipsychotics, chronic and as- harm to self or others. Antipsychotics
needed usea are associated with greater risk of
cerebrovascular accident (stroke) and
mortality in persons with dementia
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
✃
PAGE 9 Table 2 (continued on page 10)
Table 2 Continued
Disease or
Syndrome Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR
History of Antiepileptics Avoid unless safer alternatives are
falls or Antipsychoticsa not available; avoid antiepileptics
fractures Benzodiazepines except for seizure and mood disorders.
Nonbenzodiazepine, Opioids: avoid except for pain
benzodiazepine receptor agonist management in the setting of severe
hypnotics acute pain, eg, recent fractures or joint
■ Eszopiclone replacement
■ Zaleplon May cause ataxia, impaired
■ Zolpidem psychomotor function, syncope,
Antidepressants additional falls; shorter-acting
■ TCAs benzodiazepines are not safer than
■ SSRIs long-acting ones
■ SNRIs If one of the drugs must be used,
Opioids consider reducing use of other CNS-
active medications that increase risk
of falls and fractures (ie, antiepileptics,
opioid-receptor agonists, antipsychotics,
antidepressants, nonbenzodiazepine
and benzodiazepine-receptor agonists,
other sedatives/hypnotics) and
implement other strategies to reduce
fall risk. Data for antidepressants are
mixed but no compelling evidence that
certain antidepressants confer less fall
risk than others.
QE = Opioids: Moderate. All others:
High; SR = Strong
Parkinson Antiemetics Avoid
disease ■ Metoclopramide Dopamine-receptor antagonists with
■ Prochlorperazine potential to worsen parkinsonian
■ Promethazine symptoms
All antipsychotics (except
Exceptions: Pimavanserin and clozapine
quetiapine, clozapine, appear to be less likely to precipitate
pimavanserin) worsening of Parkinson disease.
Quetiapine has only been studied in
low quality clinical trials with efficacy
comparable to that of placebo in 5 trials
and to that of clozapine in 2 others.
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Gastrointestinal
History of Aspirin (>325 mg/d) Avoid unless other alternatives are
gastric or Non-COX-2 selective NSAIDs not effective and patient can take
duodenal gastroprotective agent (ie, proton-
ulcers pump inhibitor or misoprostol)
May exacerbate existing ulcers or
cause new/additional ulcers
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
PAGE 10 Table 2 (continued on page 11)
 Table 2 Continued Table 3 Continued
Disease or Prasugrel Use with caution in adults ≥75 years old
Syndrome Drug(s) Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR
Increased risk of bleeding in older adults; benefit in highest-risk older
Kidney/Urinary tract adults (e.g., those with prior myocardial infarction or diabetes mellitus)
Chronic NSAIDs (non-COX and COX- Avoid may offset risk when used for its approved indication of acute coronary
kidney selective, oral and parenteral, May increase risk of acute kidney syndrome to be managed with percutaneous coronary intervention
disease Stage nonacetylated salicylates) injury and further decline of renal QE = Moderate; SR = Weak
IV or higher function
(creatinine Antipsychotics Use with caution
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong Carbamazepine May exacerbate or cause SIADH or hyponatremia; monitor sodium
clearance <30
mL/min) Diuretics level closely when starting or changing dosages in older adults
Mirtazapine QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Oxcarbazepine
Urinary Estrogen oral and transdermal Avoid in women SNRIs
incontinence (excludes intravaginal estrogen) Lack of efficacy (oral estrogen) and SSRIs
(all types) in Peripheral alpha-1 blockers aggravation of incontinence (alpha-1 TCAs
women ■ Doxazosin blockers) Tramadol
■ Prazosin QE = Estrogen: High. Peripheral alpha-1 Dextromethorphan/ Use with caution
■ Terazosin blockers: Moderate; SR = Estrogen: quinidine Limited efficacy in patients with behavioral symptoms of dementia
Strong. Peripheral alpha-1 blockers: (does not apply to treatment of PBA). May increase risk of falls and
Strong concerns with clinically significant drug interactions. Does not apply to
Lower Strongly anticholinergic drugs, Avoid in men treatment of pseudobulbar affect.
urinary tract except antimuscarinics for urinary May decrease urinary flow and cause QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
symptoms, incontinence.* urinary retention Trimethoprim- Use with caution in patients on ACEI or ARB and decreased
benign QE = Moderate; SR = Strong sulfamethoxazole creatinine clearance.
prostatic
hyperplasia Increased risk of hyperkalemia when used concurrently with an ACEI
or ARB in presence of decreased creatinine clearance.
QE = Low; SR = Strong
TABLE 3. 2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria® for Potentially Inappropriate
Medications to Be Used with Caution in Older Adults ACEI= angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor; ARB=angiotensin receptor blocker; CrCl= creatinine
clearance; SIADH= syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion; SNRIs = Serotonin-
Recommendation, Rationale, Quality of Evidence (QE), nonrepinephrine reuptake inhibitors; SSRIs = Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; TCA=tricyclic
Drug(s) Strength of Recommendation (SR) antidepressant; VTE=venous thromboembolism
Aspirin for primary Use with caution in adults ≥70 years old
prevention of Risk of major bleeding from aspirin increases markedly in older age.
cardiovascular Several studies suggest lack of net benefit when used for primary TABLE 4. 2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria® for Potentially Clinically Important
disease and prevention in older adult with cardiovascular risk factors, but evidence Drug–Drug Interactions That Should Be Avoided in Older Adults
colorectal cancer is not conclusive. Aspirin is generally indicated for secondary Interacting Drug Recommendation, Risk Rationale, Quality of Evidence
prevention in older adults with established cardiovascular disease. Object Drug and Class and Class (QE), Strength of Recommendation (SR)
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong RAS inhibitor Another RAS Avoid routine use in those with chronic kidney
Dabigatran Use with caution for treatment of VTE or atrial fibrillation in adults ≥75 (ACEIs, ARBs, inhibitor disease Stage 3a or higher
aliskiren) or (ACEIs, ARBs, Increased risk of hyperkalemia
Rivaroxaban years old potassium-sparing aliskiren) QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding compared with warfarin diuretics (amiloride,
and reported rates with other direct oral anticoagulants when used triamterene)
for long-term treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) or atrial Opioids Benzo- Avoid
fibrillation in adults ≥75 years old. diazepines Increased risk of overdose
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
✃

PAGE 11 Table 3 (continued on page 12) PAGE 12 Table 4 (continued on page 13)
 Table 4 Continued
Warfarin Ciprofloxacin Avoid when possible; if used together, monitor INR
Table 4 Continued closely
Increased risk of bleeding
Opioids Gabapentin, Avoid; exceptions are when transitioning from opioid QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
pregabalin therapy to gabapentin or pregabalin, or when using
gabapentinoids to reduce opioid dose, although Warfarin Macrolides Avoid when possible; if used together, monitor INR
(excluding closely
caution should be used in all circumstances. azithromycin) Increased risk of bleeding
Increased risk of severe sedation-related adverse QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
events, including respiratory depression and death
Warfarin Trimethoprim- Avoid when possible; if used together, monitor INR
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong sulfamethox- closely
Anticholinergic Anticholinergic Avoid, minimize number of anticholinergic drugs azole Increased risk of bleeding
Increased risk of cognitive decline QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong Warfarin NSAIDs Avoid when possible; if used together, monitor closely
Antidepressants Any Avoid total of ≥3 CNS-active drugsa; minimize number for bleeding
(TCAs, SSRIs, and combination of CNS-active drugs Increased risk of bleeding
SNRIs) of ≥3 of these Increased risk of falls (all) and of fracture QE = High; SR = Strong
Antipsychotics CNS-active (benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepine,
Antiepileptics drugsa benzodiazepine receptor agonist hypnotics)
QE: Combinations including benzodiazepines and TABLE 5. 2019 American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria® for Medications That Should
Benzodiazepines Be Avoided or Have Their Dosage Reduced with Varying Levels of Kidney Function in Older
and nonbenzodiaz- nonbenzodiazepine, benzodiazepine receptor agonist
epine, benzodi- hypnotics or opioids: High. All other combinations: Adults
azepine receptor Moderate; SR: Strong
agonist hypnotics Creatinine Clearance,
(ie, “Z-drugs”) Medication Class mL/min, at Which Recommendation, Rationale, Quality of Evidence (QE),
and Medication Action Required Strength of Recommendation (SR)
Opioids
Corticosteroids, NSAIDs Avoid; if not possible, provide gastrointestinal Anti-infective
oral or parenteral protection Ciprofloxacin <30 Doses used to treat common infections typically
Increased risk of peptic ulcer disease or require reduction when CrCl <30 mL/min
gastrointestinal bleeding Increased risk of CNS effects (eg, seizures, confusion)
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong and tendon rupture
Lithium ACEIs Avoid, monitor lithium concentrations QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Increased risk of lithium toxicity Trimethoprim- <30 CrCl 15-29 mL/min:Reduce Dose
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong sulfamethox- <15 mL/min: Avoid
Lithium Loop diuretics Avoid, monitor lithium concentrations azole Increased risk of worsening of renal function and
Increased risk of lithium toxicity hyperkalemia
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Peripheral Loop diuretics Avoid in older women, unless conditions warrant
alpha-1 blockers both drugs a
Central nervous system (CNS)-active drugs: antiepileptics, antipsychotics; benzodiazepines; nonbenzodiazepine,
Increased risk of urinary incontinence in older women benzodiazepine receptor agonist hypnotics; tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs); selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong (SSRIs); serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs); and opioids
Phenytoin Trimethoprim- Avoid ACEIs=angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors; ARBs=angiotensin receptor blockers; INR=international
sulfamethox- Increased risk of phenytoin toxicity normalized ratio; NSAIDs=nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; RAS=renin-angiotensin system
azole QE = Moderate; SR = Strong Copyright © 2019 by the American Geriatrics Society. All rights reserved. Except where authorized, no part
Theophylline Cimetidine Avoid of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any
Increased risk of theophylline toxicity means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without written permission of the
American Geriatrics Society, 40 Fulton Street, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10038. The Criteria published by The
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
American Geriatrics Society (AGS) incorporate data obtained from a literature review of the most recent
Theophylline Ciprofloxacin Avoid studies available at the time. As with all clinical reference resources, they reflect the best understanding
Increased risk of theophylline toxicity of the science of medicine at the time of publication, but they should be used with the clear understanding
that continued research may result in new knowledge and recommendations. The Criteria are intended
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
for general information only, are not medical advice, and do not replace professional medical care and
Warfarin Amiodarone Avoid when possible; if used together, monitor INR physician advice, which always should be sought for any specific condition.
closely
Increased risk of bleeding
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
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PAGE 13 Table 4 (continued on page 14) PAGE 14 Table 5 (continued on page 15)
Table 5 Continued Table 5 Continued
Creatinine Clearance, Creatinine Clearance,
Medication Class mL/min, at Which Medication Class mL/min, at Which
and Medication Action Required Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR and Medication Action Required Recommendation, Rationale, QE, SR
Cardiovascular or hemostasis Central nervous system and analgesics
Amiloride <30 Avoid Duloxetine <30 Avoid
Increased potassium and decreased sodium Increased gastrointestinal adverse effects (nausea,
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong diarrhea)
Apixaban <25 Avoid QE = Moderate; SR = Weak
Lack of evidence for efficacy and safety in patients Gabapentin <60 Reduce dose
with a CrCl <25 mL/min CNS adverse effects
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Dabigatran <30 Avoid; dose adjustment advised when CrCl >30 mL/ Levetiracetam ≤80 Reduce dose
min in the presence of drug-drug interactions CNS adverse effects
Lack of evidence for efficacy and safety in individuals QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
with a CrCl <30 mL/min. Label dose for patients with a Pregabalin <60 Reduce dose
CrCl 15-30 mL/min based on pharmacokinetic data.
CNS adverse effects
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Dofetilide <60 CrCl 20-59 mL/min: Reduce dose
Tramadol <30 Immediate release: Reduce dose
CrCl <20 mL/min: Avoid Extended release: avoid
QTc prolongation and torsades de pointes CNS adverse effects
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong QE = Low; SR = Weak
Edoxaban 15–50 CrCl 15-50: Reduce dose Gastrointestinal
<15 or >95 CrCl <15 or >95: Avoid
Cimetidine <50 Reduce dose
Lack of evidence of efficacy or safety in patients with
a CrCl <30 mL/min Mental status changes
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Famotidine <50 Reduce dose
Enoxaparin <30 Reduce dose
Mental status changes
Increased risk of bleeding
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Nizatidine <50 Reduce dose
Fondaparinux <30 Avoid
Mental status changes
Increased risk of bleeding
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Ranitidine <50 Reduce dose
Rivaroxaban <50 Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation: reduce dose if CrCl
15-50 mL/min; avoid if CrCl <15 mL/min Mental status changes
Venous thromboembolism treatment and for VTE QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
prophylaxis with hip or knee replacement: avoid if Hyperuricemia
CrCl <30 mL/min Colchicine <30 Reduce dose; monitor for adverse effects
Lack of efficacy or safety evidence in patients with a Gastrointestinal, neuromuscular, bone marrow toxicity
CrCl <30 mL/min QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
Probenecid <30 Avoid
Spironolactone <30 Avoid Loss of effectiveness
Increased potassium QE = Moderate; SR = Strong
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong CNS=central nervous system; QTc=corrected QT interval; CrCl=creatinine clearance
Triamterene <30 Avoid
The primary target audience is the practicing clinician. The intentions of the criteria include 1) improving
Increased potassium and decreased sodium the selection of prescription drugs by clinicians and patients; 2) evaluating patterns of drug use within
QE = Moderate; SR = Strong populations; 3) educating clinicians and patients on proper drug usage; and 4) evaluating health-outcome,
quality-of-care, cost, and utilization data.
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PAGE 15 Table 5 (continued on page 16) PAGE 16