Abstract

Pharmacotherapy in the elderly is a challenge as the real risk-benefit ratio of many drugs and treatment strategies often remains unknown in these patients. Furthermore there are some special adverse drug reactions such as falls and delirium not only occurring more often but also causing an increased proportion of adverse outcomes. Finally there is the phenomenon of multimorbidity and polypharmacy responsible for treatment errors and inadequate drug treatment. A comprehensive risk-benefit analysis is needed to avoid both under- and over-treatment. This analysis should cover patients preferences, vulnerability, resources and functionality. Some simple treatment rules may improve drug treatment in the elderly, but an improved characterization of drugs and treatment strategies with regard to the elderly is essential.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.