Polypharmacy

Question 1

What are the differences in drug distribution with geriatric patients?

Answer 1

Reduced muscle mass
Increased fat tissue
Reduced body water
Protein binding changes (reduced albumin)
Increased BBB permeability

Question 2

What are the differences in drug metabolism with geriatric patients?

Answer 2

Reduced liver mass

Decreased liver blood flow

Question 3

What are the differences in drug excretion with geriatric patients?

Answer 3

Decreased renal function

Question 4

What 5 classes of drugs cause the most ADRs in elderly patients?

Answer 4

Anticholinergics
Sedatives
NSAIDs
Warfarin
Diuretics

Question 5

4 principles of prescribing to elderly?

Answer 5

Consider best therapeutic action
Does the drug cause problems?
Check if a lower does is indicated
Review regularly

Question 6

What is Beers’ criteria?

Answer 6

List of ‘inappropriate’ drugs for older people

Question 7

What is deprescribing?

Answer 7

To reduce, substitute or discontinue a drug