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Updated: Jul 27, 2026
11:17
Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
Antibiotic concerns in the elderly. A clinician's perspective
1Boston University School of Medicine, Massachusetts, USA.
Infectious Disease Clinics of North America
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Managing infections in elderly patients presents unique antibiotic challenges. This review covers age-related changes, adherence, and drug interactions for effective empiric therapy.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Elderly patients exhibit unique physiological changes impacting antibiotic management.
- Infections in older adults require careful consideration of multiple complicating factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the specific antibiotic concerns in the elderly population.
- To highlight challenges in managing infections in geriatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of antibiotic use in elderly patients.
- Analysis of age-associated physiological alterations.
- Examination of compliance, drug interactions, and adverse drug reactions.
Main Results:
- Physiological changes in the elderly affect antibiotic pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
- Patient compliance and polypharmacy increase the risk of drug-drug interactions.
- Adverse drug reactions are more prevalent and potentially severe in older adults.
Conclusions:
- Antibiotic selection and management in the elderly require a tailored approach.
- Guidelines for empiric therapy must account for the unique vulnerabilities of older patients.
- Addressing these concerns is crucial for optimizing infection treatment outcomes in geriatric populations.
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