Pharmacology Chapter 11 - Drug Therapy in Geriatric Patients

Question 1

Elderly constitute __ of the population but consume __ of prescribed drugs in the US.

Answer 1

12/31 percent.

Question 2

Elderly more sensitive to drugs and exhibit more variability in response to…..(4)

Answer 2

Altered pharmacokinetics (organ degeneration), multiple and severe illnesses, multiple drug therapy and usage, and poor compliance.

Question 3

Absorption - percentage of absorption Does/Does Not change with age, but rate may/may not be slowed.

Answer 3

DOES NOT/MAY

Question 4

Distribution -

Answer 4

increased body fat reduces plasma levels of lipid soluble drugs.

Question 5

Decreased total body water increases/does not increase concentration of water soluble drugs and intensity of response.

Answer 5

Does.

Question 6

Reduced concentration of serum albumin - malnourishment decreases albumin and results in increased drug levels. T/F?

Answer 6

True.

Question 7

Metabolism of drugs -

Answer 7

hepatic functions decrease in elderly and drug levels increase.

Question 8

Excretion of drugs -

Answer 8

decline of renal function in elderly - therefore increase drug levels in plasma.

Question 9

Tips for Administration and education of elderly -

Answer 9

make it simple, make it clearly labeled, make it a low dose, etc. etc.