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Inappropriate Drugs in the Elderly

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Drug-related problems in the elderly

Abstract

Use of inappropriate drugs is common among elderly. These drugs are associated with an increased risk of adverse drug reactions in older adults. Here we focus on four groups of drugs that are frequently used by older patients but should, if possible, be avoided. These groups are: benzodiazepines, antipsychotic drugs, drugs with anticholinergic effects, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). Benzodiazepines, anticholinergic drugs and antipsychotic drugs may cause delirium, especially in the elderly. Possible severe adverse effects from NSAIDs are e.g. gastrointestinal bleeding, renal, and heart failure. Elderly patients are more susceptible to adverse drug reactions from all these drugs due to pharmacokinetical and pharmacodynamical alterations. In most cases there are safer alternatives.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Lund University, Lund, Sweden

    Dr Patrik Midlöv, Dr Tommy Eriksson & Dr Annika Kragh

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  1. Dr Patrik Midlöv
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  2. Dr Tommy Eriksson
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  3. Dr Annika Kragh
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Correspondence to Patrik Midlöv .

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Midlöv, P., Eriksson, T., Kragh, A. (2009). Inappropriate Drugs in the Elderly. In: Drug-related problems in the elderly. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-2446-6_4

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