MEDICINE TIPS
FOR SENIORS
Why might seniors react differently
to a medicine they have been taking for years?
AS WE AGE
- Our kidneys don’t work as well
- We may have more body fat or less muscle mass
- This can change how medications are cleared from our bodies
- Some medications stay in our bodies longer
- We may experience new or worsened side effects
MEDICATIONS THAT CAUSE THE MOST PROBLEMS
- Drugs that tend to make you sleepy or drowsy may have stronger side effects than
when you were younger - Side effects like confusion may worsen & lead to a fall or an accident
- Some medications, such as some antihistamines that are used for allergies, can cause men
to have difficulty urinating
MEDICINE SENIORS SHOULD AVOID
- Muscle relaxants, Valium & sleeping pills are of special concern for older adults because of
their side effects - As we age, we tend to take more medicines & this increases the chance for interactions or added effects
FOR MORE ANSWERS
- Before you make any changes to your medication, talk with your doctor
- Bring all your medicines to your next appointment — including over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions & supplements
- Review them with your doctor, who can discuss which ones you may not require or whether there may be better alternatives
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