OLIVEIRA JUNIOR, Eliton Antônio de; BORGES, Heloisa Alves; PRADO, Lara Barroso Brito
Abstract:
Introduction: The therapeutic with the concomitant use of four drugs or more (polypharmacy) is commonly practiced by geriatric patients, but it can cause mild, moderate and severe damage, which can even lead to death. Objective: the objective of this essay is to discuss drug intoxication in the elderly and its damage to their health, and the importance of the role of the pharmacist to minimize or annul possible problems in pharmacotherapy. Methods: The literature review used was based on articles in Portuguese and English that presented considerations regarding drug interactions in the elderly and the importance of the pharmacist in their discussion. Results: The elderly, as they are highly exposed to polypharmacy, are more susceptible to drug interactions. This presents a problem for the health service, the risks caused by DIs and ADRs are often unknown and neglected by the patient, their families and even the health professional, especially when this is due to polypharmacy. Conclusion: As a deduction of aging, the elderly present physiological problems, when compared to adults and adolescents; consequently, those who most consume drugs and have adverse reactions and drug interactions, aggravated by polypharmacy.
