Читать книгу Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics - Группа авторов - Страница 88

1 The presentation of disease in the elderly is often non‐specific (e.g. confusion). It is important to make an accurate diagnosis to allow appropriate therapy

2 Treat only when benefit outweighs risks. Elderly patients frequently have multiple symptoms and pathologies leading to polypharmacy. This increases the risk of side effects and results in poor adherence

3 It is important to review the need for each prescription on a regular basis. If a drug is considered necessary for symptomatic or prognostic benefit, ensure the minimum dose required is used

4 Understand the change in pharmacology with age (particularly decline in renal function) for each drug used, remembering that dose alterations may be required, particularly in the acute setting