Geriatric Pharm

Question 1

Estimate GFR in an elderly person?

Answer 1

(114 - (0.8 x AGE)) / serum creatinine

x 0.85 for women

Question 2

Antiarrhythmic that may cause diarrhea?

Answer 2

quinidine

Question 3

Antiarrhythmic that may cause urinary retention?

Answer 3

disopyramide

Question 4

Antiarrhythmic that has strong anticholinergic effects?

Answer 4

disopyramide

Question 5

Most common drugs that land elderly people in ED due to adverse effect?

Answer 5

insulin, warfarin, digoxin

Question 6

“Rules” for prescribing to elderly pts?

Answer 6

Minimize # of drugs
Alternatives should be considered
Start low, go slow
Titrate therapy; adjust to individual
Educate pt & family: clear written instructions
Review regularly; closely monitor old pts

Question 7

Drugs w/ high Na+ content? (don’t give to elderly folks w/ CHF)

Answer 7

bisphosphonates, citrate, salicylates

Question 8

Don’t give elderly folks with hyponatremia this drug.

Answer 8

SSRIs

Question 9

First line drug for pain in elderly?

Answer 9

acetominophen (not NSAIDs)