Abstract
BackgroundThe use of drugs in the elderly is very extensive because of the frequent occurrence of chronic diseases. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) commonly occur in geriatric patients receiving multiple therapeutic regimens. In the literature, little attention has been given to ADRs in the elderly, and particularly to allergic reactions.ObjectiveThe aim of the present study is to provide data on possible inappropriate prescriptions in the elderly in relation to allergic reactions and to identify a list of drugs which are likely inducers of allergic reactions.MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated ADRs in patients referring to Immunoallergy Unit of Hospital Policlinico in Bari on the basis of Beers criteria. Among adverse reactions, hypersensitivity reactions were extracted and a comparison between different age groups was assessed.ResultsOut of 823 patients with ADRs, in 30.6% hypersensitivity drug reactions (HDR) were diagnosed. Data about drug intake, comorbidities and clinical presentation were collected, aiming to identify possible risk factors. An evaluation of drugs most commonly involved was assessed.ConclusionsHDR are reported to represent 5–10% of all ADRs, while in our study population the prevalence was about 30%. This suggests the need to develop strategies to minimize the incidence of drug allergy in the elderly, as well to reduce the phenomenon of inappropriate prescriptions.
Highlights
The use of drugs in the elderly is very extensive because of the frequent occurrence of chronic diseases
We retrospectively evaluated adverse drug reaction (ADR) in patients referring to Immunoallergy Unit of Hospital Policlinico in Bari on the basis of Beers criteria
hypersensitivity drug reactions (HDR) are reported to represent 5–10% of all ADRs, while in our study population the prevalence was about 30%. This suggests the need to develop strategies to minimize the incidence of drug allergy in the elderly, as well to reduce the phenomenon of inappropriate prescriptions
Summary
The use of drugs in the elderly is very extensive because of the frequent occurrence of chronic diseases. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) commonly occur in geriatric patients receiving multiple therapeutic regimens. The concomitant use of several drugs in the elderly is closely related to the multiple chronic diseases typical of this age. The percentage of adverse events increases from 13%, in case of concomitant intake of two drugs to 82% in case of intake of 7 or more drugs [2]. Another relevant factor is the alteration in the pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) and pharmacodynamics, as well as the changes in the body mass in terms of total body fat and water [3]. According to Edwards et al, ADRs are classified as follows: type
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