title: Practical issues in geriatric psychopharmacology.
abstract: In summary, clinicians must consider multiple changes in the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of psychotropic drugs among older patients. Lower starting doses (often one-quarter to one-half the usual adult dose) is advisable, with slow dosing adjustments (no sooner than every 5 to 7 days) as needed. The time required to see steady-state therapeutic levels, or for elimination of most medications, are substantially longer in the elderly. One must consider the potential for drug-drug interactions, as well as anti-cholinergic or other side-effects, when prescribing a regimen. Changes should be made slowly, changing only one variable at a time, in order to achieve best results.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Tierney
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged / Q000502:physiology*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D006207:Half-Life; D006801:Humans; D007408:Intestinal Absorption / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*
chemical_list: D011619:Psychotropic Drugs