title: Drug eruptions in the elderly.
abstract: Because the older group of the population is becoming more numerous, we see a high prevalence in drug adverse reactions among the elderly. Polypharmacy, which is the use of five or more medications, is one reason why this group has a greater risk of adverse drug reactions. Cutaneous adverse reactions to drugs are not always life threatening, but they can be an important factor for a poor quality of life among older patients. The potential benefits of appropriately prescribed medications are unquestionable, but the possibility of an adverse reaction must be recognized and prevented in older people so they can have a better quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Sector of Dermatology and Post-Graduation Course in Dermatology, University Hospital and School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rua Farme de Amoedo 140/601, 22420-020 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. sueli@hucff.ufrj.br
authors.forename: Sueli Coelho da Silva
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Carneiro
authors.forename: Melissa Chaves
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Azevedo-e-Silva
authors.forename: Marcia
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ramos-e-Silva
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D004347:Drug Interactions; D006801:Humans; D019338:Polypharmacy