Polypharmacy Flashcards
1
Q
what side effects are particularly relevant in the elderly?
A
cognition and consciousness (delirium risk) bowel function (constipation) dizziness and balance (postural hypotension and parkinsonism - falls)
2
Q
describe anti-cholinergic side effects
A
red as a beet dry as a bone blind as a bat hot as a hare mad as a hatter tachycardia urinary retention constipation dizziness falls
3
Q
what is the main ling term risk of anti-cholinergics?
A
increased dementia risk
4
Q
name 6 drug types which can cause anti-cholinergic side effects
A
Parkinson drugs anti-depressants anti-emetics opiates anti-psychotics antihistamines
5
Q
give 2 examples of side effects caused by drug interactions
A
alpha blocker (for BPH) + another antihypertentive = postural hypotension antibiotic + ACE inhibitor = reduced renal function
6
Q
what is number needed to treat?
A
the number of people who would need to be given the drug for 1 person to have benefits
7
Q
what is number needed to harm?
A
the number of people who would need to be given the drug for 1 person to have harm from the drug
8
Q
what 4 factors can assist in avoiding polypharmacy when prescribing?
A
does benefit outweigh risk?
use time limited conditions
review prescriptions
patient education
