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[Diuretics-related complications in elderly patients]
Ronald Otto1, Regina E Roller1, Bernhard Iglseder2
1Universitätsklinik für Innere Medizin, Medizinische Universität Graz, Graz, Austria.
Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|July 20, 2010
Summary
Diuretics can cause adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in older adults, especially when combined with other medications. Careful consideration of patient condition and polypharmacy is crucial to mitigate these risks in geriatric care.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Therapeutics
Context:
- Diuretics are commonly prescribed for geriatric patients.
- Their use may be complicated by age-related physiological changes and functional impairments.
- Polypharmacy is prevalent in this population, increasing the risk of drug interactions.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the potential risks associated with diuretic use in the elderly.
- To explore the clinical relevance of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) linked to diuretics in geriatric patients.
- To synthesize existing literature on diuretic-associated ADRs in older adults.
Summary:
- Diuretics are frequently associated with adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in geriatric patients.
- Polypharmacy significantly elevates the risk of these ADRs.
- Age-related physiological changes and suboptimal prescribing practices contribute to these risks.
Impact:
- Highlights the need for cautious diuretic prescribing in older adults.
- Emphasizes the importance of medication review to prevent ADRs.
- Informs clinical practice regarding the safe use of diuretics in geriatric populations.
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