Pharmacist-led deprescribing of potentially inappropriate medications in older adults in Saudi Arabia: a narrative review

The Saudi population remains relatively young; however, adults aged 60 years or older represented approximately 6% of the population in 2024 and are expected to reach 14% by 2050. This narrative review describes pharmacist-led deprescribing among older adults in Saudi Arabia. Polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate medications are common, but Saudi evidence remains mainly descriptive. Only one small controlled study has evaluated a deprescribing intervention; most studies examined healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and readiness. International studies show that pharmacists can identify inappropriate medications, involve patients and prescribers, and monitor medication withdrawal. However, evidence of improved clinical outcomes remains uncertain. In Saudi Arabia, implementation is challenged by the lack of validated Arabic tools, national guidance, integrated workflows, and defined pharmacist authority. Current healthcare initiatives may support deprescribing, but multicenter intervention studies and standardized national pathways are needed.