Pharmacodynamics describes the course of action of a drugs and aging at the effector organ level, in terms of duration and magnitude of action, and amplitude of and time to reach the peak action, for both therapeutic and adverse actions. Alterations in the number and affinity of drug receptors, postreceptor signaling processes, biochemical responses, homeostatic mechanisms, and body composition, in addition to higher likelihood of polypharmacy and concurrent pathological processes in older age, make elders more susceptible to adverse drug reactions, drug–drug interactions, or decreased/ increased sensitivity to some drug action. (more…)

Addiction is more than frequent drug use. Recent scientific research provides strong evidence that drugs not only interfere with normal brain functioning but also have long-term effects on brain metabolism and activity. Those addicted to drugs experience compulsive drug craving and cannot quit by themselves. Treatment of dementia is necessary to end this compulsive behavior. (more…)

Many studies have shown that antibiotic drugs are often prescribed unnecessary or inappropriate. Drugs for elderly (geriatric drugs) has certainly contributed to the growing problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics in the elderly. As a group, elderly patients in hospitals and long-term care facilities are the main beneficiaries of antibiotics. One consequence is the promotion of the strain and the distribution of microorganisms resistant to antibiotics. (more…)

Something you and your doctor should appreciate is that getting older influences the way you react to drugs. Elderly patients are twice as susceptible to drug reactions as younger adults are. The aging kidneys and liver contribute to the problem. The relative quantity of water in the body decreases and thus is not as available to dilute the medication, and the kidneys are less capable of excreting drugs. The liver is also less able to metabolize drugs. (more…)