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[Health Plus] Drug-induced illness: Side effects of medication in the elderly.
A super-aged society where people aged 65 or older account for 20% of the total population.
As this is right before our eyes, the number of patients with chronic diseases is rapidly increasing in our country.
Most medications for chronic diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure require taking for several years.
That's why it is said that a whopping 70% of the elderly in our country are taking more than 5 types of medication for more than 3 months.
Today on Health Plus, we will learn about the side effects of medications in the elderly.
After taking the medicine, the doctor or the patient did not want
If any adverse health consequences occur,
It is defined as a side effect of the drug.
The elderly are about three times more likely to die than the younger generation
Vulnerable to drug side effects.
Among the reasons why elderly patients are hospitalized
Drug side effects account for 3-9%.
Medicines are made through several stages of research and clinical trials.
This test itself is not for the elderly
Because it is tailored to young and healthy people
It seems that side effects are more likely to occur in the elderly.
Professor Jang Il-young/Department of Geriatrics, Seoul Asan Medical Center
In the elderly, the medication takes effect when it enters the body due to changes in the body caused by aging.
Furthermore, the process of drug withdrawal from the body differs significantly from that of younger people, and is also significantly more unstable. The risk of adverse drug reactions is particularly high in those with declining bodily functions, those with impaired one or two organ functions, and those over 80 years of age.
Usually, when taking one drug,
When taking multiple medications at the same time
Side effects occur at a higher rate.
If you regularly take more than five medications per day,
The frequency of side effects increases significantly.
If you take more than 10 medications
The probability of side effects occurring is close to 100%.
That means you are bound to experience one or more side effects from the drug.
But not noticing the side effects of the drug
To resolve side effects
In fact, it may even lead to more prescriptions for new drugs.
Professor Jang Il-young/Department of Geriatrics, Seoul Asan Medical Center
Side effects of medication in the elderly usually include loss of energy, dry mouth, and loss of appetite.
Dizziness and other common symptoms of aging are common as we age. Therefore, it can be difficult to determine whether these symptoms are side effects of medication or simply a consequence of aging. Especially when we don't anticipate or suspect a side effect, we often mistake it for a new illness or condition, leading us to prescribe new or additional medications. Conversely, when there's a hidden illness in the body, such as diabetes or depression, it's not uncommon for people to mistake this new condition for a side effect of a medication, thereby missing the opportunity for a new diagnosis.
A chronic disease that was well managed with consistent medication for several years
At some point, it becomes difficult to control.
As we get older, even small changes
Drug concentration and effects in the body
Because it can vary greatly,
But most patients
I don't think a medication you've been taking for a long time will be ineffective. If the medication isn't as effective as before or you experience any adverse reactions, you should definitely consult your doctor.
Our country has a relatively low threshold for medical institutions.
It is not difficult to get a prescription from various medical institutions,
General medicines or health supplements purchased at a pharmacy
Many people take them all at once
The risk of drug side effects is particularly high.
Professor Jang Il-young/Department of Geriatrics, Seoul Asan Medical Center
To prevent drug side effects, it's crucial to have a professional review of your medications to ensure you're taking only the medications you need. Doctors and pharmacies are particularly meticulous in prescribing medications, but many people discontinue their medications arbitrarily or voluntarily, citing discomfort or suspected side effects. This can be extremely dangerous. Therefore, it's important to always consult a professional before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Too much of anything is bad, and this applies to health as well. To ensure that the medications you're taking for your health aren't toxic, you should review your current medications to ensure they're not excessive or causing any problems. This has been Health Plus.