Prescription Medications Can Be Dangerous for Seniors

Prescription Medications Can Be Dangerous for Seniors

Here are six risky drugs for seniors:

 

Diabetes drugs with a long half-life: Diabinese (chlorpropamide) can lead to prolonged and serious hypoglycemia in seniors. Short-acting agents, such as Glucotrol (glipizide) are good alternatives.

 

Anticholinergic antihistamines: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl and others) should be avoided as they can cause confusion, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, cognitive impairment, and delirium. Clearance of the drug from the body is slower in elderly patients. Alternatives include Allegra (fexofenadine) and Claritin (loratadine).

 

Muscle relaxants: Flexeril, Robaxin, and others can also cause the types of anticholinergic effects listed above. Alternatives are to treat the underlying condition with physical therapy, ergonomics, and application of heat or cold.

 

Oral mineral oil for constipation: They can cause inflammation of the lungs. Alternatives are increased fiber in the diet plus adequate hydration (drinking lots of water).

 

Benzodiazepines: Valium and other drugs in this family should be used with caution in the elderly as they can cause or worsen cognitive impairment. They can also cause delirium and an unsteady gait, which leads to falls with serious consequences like hip fractures. Alternatives for anxiety are non-drug interventions such as behavioral therapy or relaxation techniques, like yoga.

 

Potassium-sparing diuretics: Triamterene, amiloride, and spironolactone should be used with extreme caution in the elderly who may have reduced renal function. They can cause dangerous elevations in potassium levels, which can lead to serious, even lethal cardiac arrthymias.