Related Experiment Videos
Illicit Drug Use in Older Adults: An Invisible Epidemic?
Ziad Ghantous1, Victoria Ahmad1, Rita Khoury2
1University of Balamand, Faculty of Medicine, Youssef Sursock Street, PO Box 166378, Beirut, Lebanon; Department of Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Saint Georges Hospital University Medical Center, Youssef Sursock Street, PO Box 166378, Beirut, Lebanon.
Abstract:
Illicit drug use/misuse among older adults is understudied, although current trends point to older adults being the fastest-growing segment in the United States and other developed countries. There is a need for further insight into drug use patterns in older adults, who face their own set of socioeconomic, medical, and psychiatric problems. We reviewed the literature for data related to use/misuse of heroin and stimulants (cocaine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines) among people over the age of 40 years. We focused on prevalence rates of use/misuse of these substances, comorbidities, diagnostic challenges, screening tools, and treatment recommendations specific to the geriatric population.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Absorption
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Excretion
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Distribution
Prescription, Nonprescription and Orphan Drugs
The misuse and addiction to prescription drugs is a growing problem that can affect people of all age groups, specifically teenagers. This can happen when prescription medications are used in ways not intended by the prescriber, such as taking someone else's prescription or using medication for...