3: Geriatric Pharmacology

Question 1

Describe age-related changes in drug absorption.

Answer 1

Drug absorption may be changed due to changes in GI blood flow

Question 2

Describe age-related changes in drug distribution.

Answer 2

Drug distribution may be elevated due to reduced total H20

Question 3

Describe age-related changes in drug metabolism and excretion.

Answer 3

Metabolism and elimination may be slower due to liver and kidney changes

Question 4

Older adults represent 14% of the general population. What percentage of prescription and OTC drugs do they consume?

Answer 4

• > 30% prescription drugs in US

- > 40% all OTC drugs

Question 5

Describe issues related to poly-pharmacy in older adults. What is the risk of poly-pharmacy?

Answer 5

• 80% of over 65 year old have chronic diseases
• People often have more than one health care practitioner
• Inaccurate drug histories
• Practitioners often fail to coordinate care
• This may result in seniors being on more than one medication and interactions may occur

Question 6

What are some drug risk issues that older adults have?

Answer 6

• Confusing names of drugs
• Labels with small print
• Confusing directions
• Child proof lids
• Financial decisions

Question 7

What are some primary preventative measures that can be taken with regards to drugs and older adults?

Answer 7

• Community Education programs for seniors, caregivers and adult day-care workers
• Discuss problems such as labeling, hoarding, avoiding swapping meds, side effects and risk versus benefits of common medications

Question 8

What are some secondary preventative measures that can be taken with regards to drugs and older adults?

Answer 8

• Obtain good drug history
• Clearly document adverse drug effects
• Be critical of rationale for new drug added