Older Americans tend to take more drugs than almost any other societal group. They also face special medical challenges as they may have trouble remembering when each does is scheduled. Failing eyesight and arthritic fingers and hands can also be a factor in taking prescribed dosages.

Many caregivers report their most difficult ongoing task is making sure their loved ones take the proper medicines at the right times. Researchers suggest that caregivers need to be even more vigilant about the medicines being prescribed.

Some drugs can even be dangerous for the elderly. According to researchers, the natural age-related changes that occur in the body can make some drugs too potent for the user. They point out that the liver and kidneys process drugs less efficiently as the body ages. The digestive systems of older patients are less able to absorb medications and the nervous system is more sensitive.

In fact, some studies have shown that several million over-65 Americans are taking medicines labeled (labeled literally? Or is “identified” better here) as “inappropriate medications” because of the age and health status of the users.

Among the types of medications that should be carefully screened by caregivers are:

• Belladonna alkaloids with phenol-barbital (Barbidonna, Donnatal)
• Hyoscyamine (Anaspaz, A-Spas S/L, Cystospaz, Symax, Levbid et al)
• Pentazocine (Talwin, Talwin NX)
• Trimethobenzamide (Benzacot, Stemetic, Trimazide)
• Flurazepam (Dalmane, Somnol, Novo-Flupam, Apo-Flurazepam)
• Chlorpropamide (Diabinase, Novo Propamide, Apo-Chiorpropamide

A complete list is available on the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine website at http://www.mountsinaihospital.org.