Prescription drug abuse in the elderly.

Abstract

The increased use of prescription drugs has brought pain relief too many and often improved the quality of life of elderly patients. But the increase in use and availability of prescription medications-especially controlled substances-brings with it an increased potential for abuse. Studies have shown that intentional abuse of prescription drugs is increasing among all age groups. As the number of persons 65 years of age and older skyrockets with the aging of the baby boomers, experts predict that prescription drug abuse among the elderly also will rise significantly. Efforts to increase awareness of drug abuse among elderly patients, caregivers, and health care practitioners, as well as research into how best to prevent and treat the elderly drug abuser, will be necessary to thwart what could become a significant public health problem.

• Authors: Caren McHenry Martin
• Journal: The Consultant pharmacist : the journal of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (Consult Pharm) Vol. 23 Issue 12 Pg. 930-4, 936, 941-2 (Dec 2008) ISSN: 0888-5109 [Print] United States
• PMID: 19275462 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Analgesics, Opioid
• Prescription Drugs

Topics

• Age Factors
• Aged
• Analgesics, Opioid (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Drug and Narcotic Control
• Humans
• Pain (drug therapy)
• Prescription Drugs (adverse effects)
• Risk Factors
• Substance-Related Disorders (epidemiology, rehabilitation)