Epidemiology and prevention of adverse drug reactions in the elderly

Many studies have demonstrated a correlation between increasing age and adverse drug reactions. This increased risk is related to aged-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. In addition, chronic illnesses such as congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease and hypertension are more prevalent in the elderly who also have an increased risk of diabetes, arthritis and cancer. Consequently elderly patients are often treated with multiple medications, which may cause drug interactions and adverse drug reactions. Adequate undergraduate training in clinical pharmacology and continued professional development in evidence-based therapeutics will undoubtedly reduce inappropriate prescribing and improve the quality of medications. Good communications between physicians and patients are also critically important in avoidance or prevention of adverse drug reactions in the elderly.