Geriatric Pharmacology

Question 1

What are 2 reasons why elderly are at higher risk of ADRs?

Answer 1

1) Age-associated changes in PK and PD

2) Disorders aggravated by concurrent drugs that affect renal function

Question 2

What are the type A ADRs of benzodiazepines?

Answer 2

1) CNS
- drowsiness
- diminished motor skills
- prolonged reaction time

2) Anterograde amnesia

3) Acute OD:
- bradycardia
- hypotension

4) Paradoxical effects
- irritability, rage
- hallucination/hypomanic behaviour, rambling

Question 3

What is the definition of polypharmacy?

Answer 3

The use of 3 or more drugs at the same time

Question 4

What are 2 ADRs/DDIs of antidepressants?

Answer 4

1) Hyponatremia
2) CYP450 inhibition

Question 5

What are the common ADRs of NSAIDs/Coxibs?

Answer 5

1) ↑Risk of GI bleed
2) Nephrotoxicity (NSAIDs)
3) Impaired wound healing
4) Thrombosis (shunting)

Question 6

What are the ADRs of ß-blockers?

Answer 6

1) Bronchospasm
2) Nightmares
3) Bradycardia