title: Drug-Device Combinations: Are They Appropriate for the Aging Population?
abstract: Hundreds of marketed products combine drugs with delivery devices. Experts estimate that these drug-device combinations (DDCs) generated nearly $24 billion in sales in 2014. DDCs appeal to clinicians and consumers for several reasons. Drugs delivered with a technology-assist may cause fewer side effects, avoid systemic exposure, result in a higher degree of efficacy, or create consistent blood levels. When physicians prescribe a DDC, consultant pharmacists have a unique role: ensuring patients can use the DDC appropriately. Available DDCs require some degree of eye-hand coordination, and older individuals often have difficulty with vision, dexterity, and grip strength. This review primarily discusses three types of DDC: those designed for diabetics, inhalers, and transdermal DDCs, and the characteristics that can challenge older patients.
authors.affiliation: University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, Storrs, Connecticut, USA.
authors.forename: Christine
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Kubus
authors.forename: Jeannette Y
authors.initials: JY
authors.lastname: Wick
mesh_terms: D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000368:Aged; D003253:Consultants; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000188:drug therapy; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010593:Pharmaceutical Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D010595:Pharmacists / Q000458:organization & administration*; D024382:Professional Role
chemical_list: D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations