Drugs for a Geriatric Patient

As you age, it always seems like the physicians are prescribing more and more medications to you. This occurs because of certain conditions that associated with becoming a geriatric patient. The most common drugs for a geriatric patient fall into a few different categories.  

Antihypertensives

Advances in age result in an increase in blood pressure, due to increased sodium levels, smoking, excessive alcohol levels and poor eating habits. Oftentimes, the elderly’s prolonged exposure to these substances and behaviors result in high blood pressure. As a person ages, weight seems to increase as well, because of decrease in physical activity and metabolism changes. The weight increase triggers a variety of problems including hypertension. The drugs fall into one of five different categories: angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and renin inhibitors. A physician may prescribe medications, such as metoprolol, lisinipril, diltiazem or valsartan.

Depression Medications

As an individual ages, feelings of worthlessness may occur--oftentimes resulting in severe depression. On the contrary, certain diseases cause depression and are more common in geriatric patients. Depression medications are classified in one of four different categories including tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Examples of these drugs include ariprazole, escitalopram, citalopram, bupropion and mirtazapine.

Antipsychotics/Psychotropics

With age comes the onset of dementia, psychosis and other mental problems--all of which may result in aggressive behaviors and mood swings. Oftentimes, an antipsychotic is prescribed to decrease the symptoms associated with the condition. This includes the mood changes, increased anxiety levels and even the sleepiness from certain medications. These drugs include depression medications, tranquilizers, sedatives and stimulants. Examples of antipsychotics include haloperidol, risperidone and quetiapine.