“Any symptom in an elderly patient should be considered a drug side effect until proved otherwise”

1. Medications – A Double-Edged Sword?
“Any symptom in an elderly patient should be considered a
drug side effect until proved otherwise”

2. Modern Medicines Have Contributed To
 Longer life spans
 Improved health
 Better quality of life
For older adults and people with disabilities,
medications can be a double-edged sword

3. When not used Appropriately,
Effectively and Safely, medications
can have devastating consequences.

4. Symptoms of Medication-Related Problems
(MRP)
 Excessive drowsiness
 Confusion
 Depression
 Delirium
 Insomnia
 Parkinson’s-like symptoms
 Incontinence
 Muscle weakness
 Loss of appetite
 Falls and fractures
 Changes in speech and memory

5. MRP Due to New Medication
This medication-related problem occurs when a person has a
medical condition that requires a new or additional medication, but
none has been provided.
Proper assessment by health care professionals is essential so that
symptoms can be identified and proper treatment initiated.

6. MRP & Unnecessary Medication
This medication-related problem occurs when a patient is
taking a medication that is unnecessary given the patient’s
current medical problems.
Patients who are exposed to unnecessary medications may
experience toxic effects.

7. MRP Due to Wrong Medication
This medication-related problem occurs when a person has a
medical condition for which the wrong medication is being taken.
Patients and their caregivers must have a clear understanding of
what to expect—and when to expect it—when taking medications.

8. Dose Too Low
This type of MRP occurs when a patient has a medical condition for
which too little of the correct medication has been prescribed.
Patients and their caregivers must have a clear understanding of
what to expect from their medications.

9. Dose Too High
This MRP frequently occurs in older people because an
otherwise “normal dose” of a medication can be an overdose for
many older persons.

10. Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs)
ADRs can occur when a patient is receiving a medication considered to
be unsafe based on:
The characteristics of the patient;
An allergic reaction to the medication;
An interaction with another medication or food;
The incorrect administration of the medication; or
A medication dosage increased or decreased too rapidly

11. How To Avoid MRP?

12. Understand the Medication: Find out as much as possible about every
medication
Have Complete Medical Records: Make sure to provide complete medical
records to your loved one's health care providers.
Follow the Directions: Following the directions of the medication is imperative
to ensure safety. Read all instructions carefully.
Use Only One Pharmacist: Fill all prescriptions at the same pharmacy.
Make a List of All Medications: Keep a detailed list including the drug name,
size of dosage and any cautions stated on the package. Carry a copy of this list
with you in your wallet or purse at all times.
Watch for Physical Changes: Notify the health care provider of any social
changes, including sleeping patterns, work schedules, and special diets.
Don't Self-Treat: Let the doctor know if the medicine doesn't seem to be
working or if it is causing problems.
Keep Drugs Separate: Do not mix different medications together in one
container.
Watch Expiration Dates: Discard expired medicine f any
Develop a Routine: Giving medications in a specific way at specific times of the
day will help reduce conflicts.

13. Be Prepared for Emergencies
If you suspect a medication overdose, call poison control or 911 immediately.
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