10 - Drugs & Polypharmacy 1 Flashcards
why are ADRs (adverse drug reactions) so important to be aware of?
they can be fatal, and they are often preventable
name 6 possible iatrogenic problems associated with anticholinergics?
Confusion dry mouth constipation blurred vision urinary retention orthostatic hypotension
name 2 possible iatrogenic problems associated with tricyclics?
confusion
unsteady gait
name a possible iatrogenic problem associated with digoxin toxicity?
abnormal serum levels
name a possible iatrogenic problem associated with benzodiazepines?
CNS toxicity
name 5 costly ADR related issues in older patients?
falls delirium dehydration incontinence depression
name 3 possible results of ADR related issues in older patients?
Loss of functional capacity
Poor quality of life
Nursing home placement
what is the relationship between older adults (>50 years old) and prescriptions?
older adults are x2-3 more likely to have many prescriptions
3 reasons why older people tend to have more prescriptions?
More acute & chronic disease
More doctors visits
Drugs often given to counteract a side effect of another drug
what can ADR often be misinterpreted as and what is the consequence of this?
misinterpreted as a new medical condition - therefore prescribed new drug to treat this
give an example of a condition that presents differently in old and young patients and give 4 symptoms which demonstrate this?
hyperthyroidism -
young patient = tremor, anxiety, weight loss, diarrhoea
older patient = depression/ cognitive impairment, muscle weakness, angina, atrial fibrillation
describe 3 healthcare provider factors which contribute to polypharmacy?
Ordering automatic refills
Prescribes without sufficiently investigating clinical situation
No med review with patient on regular basis
