Counseling and support services for the caregiver also may be appropriate. Chutka, Darryl S. Medication Use in Nursing Home Residents. Medication usage among institutionalized elderly is higher. Most residents take an average of eight medications. The body's reaction to a medication changes with age.
Drugs have a longer duration of activity and can have a greater or lesser drug effect.
In addition, there is an increased risk of drug toxicity and adverse drug reactions. It is important to weigh the benefits of a medication against the risks for nursing facility residents. The author discusses medications that have altered effects or potential for harm. These include sedative and hypnotic agents such as barbiturates and long-acting benzodiazepines. Other medications discussed are antidepressants such as amitriptyline, beta blockers, and nonsteriodal anti-inflammatory drugs.