In the light of dusk, our body gradually shows the traces of its time. For our beloved middle-aged and elderly friends, every day may face new challenges – especially when it comes to health management. As we age, we inevitably need to rely on various medications to maintain quality of life, control and ** chronic diseases. However, a little-known truth crept in: not all drugs are suitable for our bodies that change as we age. In fact, there are some commonly used medications that, if used carelessly, can have serious irreversible consequences.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in our daily lives for their properties of relieving pain quickly and reducing inflammation. Such medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are an integral part of many households' standing medicine cabinets. However, for middle-aged and older people, the use of these drugs needs to be more cautious.
First, we need to understand how NSAIDs work. These drugs work by inhibiting chemicals in the body that produce pain and inflammation. But this inhibition does not come without a cost. Long-term or high-dose use of NSAIDs may lead to gastrointestinal bleeding due to their disruption of the mechanisms that protect the gastric mucosa. In addition to this, these drugs may affect kidney function, especially in older people with pre-existing renal insufficiency.
Cardiovascular problems are also another important aspect to focus on with long-term use of NSAIDs. Studies have shown that these drugs may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, especially when used in high doses over a long period of time.
Given these potential risks, older adults should take the following steps when using NSAIDs:
Principle of minimum effective dose:Always use the smallest dose that relieves symptoms and keep it as short as possible.
Doctor's Guidance:Consult a physician before starting any NSAIDs**, especially those with pre-existing heart disease, kidney disease, or gastrointestinal disease.
Regular check-ups:Regular kidney function and blood pressure tests, as well as other relevant health monitoring, are done to ensure that the medication is used safely.
Most importantly, older adults should weigh the pros and cons when considering any NSAIDs and explore possible alternatives, such as physical or less risky analgesics. With this approach, we can minimize the potential risks posed by medications while effectively managing pain and inflammation and maintaining a healthy quality of life.
Long-acting benzodiazepines are often seen as a convenient option when managing sleep disorders, anxiety, and certain types of psychosis in older adults. However, the use of such drugs is not without risks. In fact, for middle-aged and elderly groups, the benefits of such drugs may far outweigh their benefits.
Potential ***
Long-acting benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and clonazepam, may increase the risk of falls and cognitive decline while providing sedation. This is because these drugs affect the central nervous systemThis leads to prolonged reaction times and muscle relaxation, which in turn affects body coordination. In older people, even a minor fall can lead to serious consequences, such as fractures or other complications.
Management & Alternatives
Principle of Prudent Use:When considering the use of long-acting benzodiazepines, the possibility of other non-pharmacological agents, such as cognitive-behavioural**, should be assessed first, and these methods have been shown to be effective in managing sleep disturbances and anxiety without medications***
Short-term vs. minimum effective dose:If drugs must be used, give preference to drugs with a short half-life, and always adhere to the principle of lowest effective dose, and shorten the duration of administration as much as possible to reduce the risk.
Periodic Assessments:Conduct regular health assessments for elderly patients who are taking these drugs, monitor changes in their cognitive function and physical coordination, and adjust the ** regimen in a timely manner.
Alternative medicines:In some cases, doctors may recommend benzodiazepines with shorter half-lives or other types of drugs with a higher safety profile, such as certain antidepressants, which may be safer options for older people.
In daily life, middle-aged and elderly friends may be advised to use anticholinergic drugs for various reasons. These drugs are widely used for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, certain intestinal disorders, and Parkinson's disease. However, the use of anticholinergic drugs is not without risks, especially in middle-aged and older people.
Core Risks:The main anticholinergic drugs include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and urinary retention. More seriously, they may exacerbate cognitive decline, especially in middle-aged and older age groups. By inhibiting the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, these drugs affect the body's natural functions and can also cause irregular heartbeats with long-term use.
Personalization Strategy:In view of the above risks, it is recommended to carefully select and use anticholinergic drugs under the guidance of a doctor, according to the individual's health status and specific needs. For example, individuals with prostatic hyperplasia or glaucoma should avoid or use these drugs with caution. In addition, the doctor may adjust the dosage of the drug or recommend an alternative** regimen depending on the patient's specific situation.
Promoting safe drug use:To minimize *** and risk, the following measures are recommended:
Perform regular comprehensive health assessments, particularly for cognitive function. Work closely with your health care team to provide real-time feedback on any discomfort after medication use. Explore non-pharmacological options, such as lifestyle modifications and physical, to reduce symptoms.