Pharmaceutical care for 65+
What does the pharmacy do?
The 65+ target group occupies an important place in pharmaceutical care. Many elderly people deal with chronic conditions and therefore take multiple medications. As a pharmacy, we play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of these medications. In this article, we discuss the most commonly used medications among the elderly and provide tips for their proper use. In addition, we explain how we further tailor our care to this specific target group.
Commonly used medications
.-
Blood pressure suppressants (antihypertensives)
High blood pressure is common in the elderly and is usually treated with medications such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II antagonists, beta blockers and calcium antagonists. A well-known example is lisinopril (an ACE inhibitor). These drugs lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. It is important to take these medications at the same time daily and report side effects, such as dizziness, immediately.
-
Cholesterol reducers (statins)
Many elderly people use statins, such as simvastatin or atorvastatin, to lower cholesterol levels and thereby prevent cardiovascular disease. We recommend taking these medications in the evening because the body produces more cholesterol at night. It is also important to have regular cholesterol checks and discuss any muscle pain, a common side effect.
-
Anticoagulants (blood thinners)
Blood thinners such as acenocoumarol, phenprocoumon or the newer DOACs (Immediate Oral Anticoagulants) are often prescribed to elderly people with cardiac arrhythmias or after a thrombosis. With these medications, it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage carefully and not to skip doses. Regular monitoring of blood levels (INR value) is necessary for patients taking old-fashioned blood thinners.
-
Painkillers and anti-inflammatories
Elders often use painkillers such as paracetamol for chronic pain, and anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen for osteoarthritis or other joint problems. We recommend taking anti-inflammatories preferably during meals to avoid stomach upset. Long-term use of anti-inflammatories may cause stomach problems or kidney problems, so regular consultation with the doctor is advisable.
Tips for medication use in the elderly
- Medicine guidance
Many people over 65 use multiple medications at the same time. This can lead to so-called polypharmacy, where there is a risk of side effects or unwanted drug interactions. We offer comprehensive medication counseling and regularly check whether the combination of medications is still appropriate. In doing so, we consult with the physician if necessary to make adjustments. - Medication tailored
Elders may react differently to medication due to physical changes, such as reduced kidney function. That's why we adjust dosages as needed and take into account personal factors such as diet, other medications and lifestyle. - Medicine roll and delivery
For many seniors, it's difficult to keep track of their medication intake themselves. This is why we offer the medication roll, a convenient system where the medication is packaged by intake time. This prevents mistakes and gives the patient and their caregivers more security. In addition, we deliver medications to the home, so that elderly people who are less mobile still receive their medication in a timely manner. - Information and advice
We take the time to provide comprehensive information on the proper intake of medication, possible side effects and what to do in case of forgotten doses. In addition, we help with practical questions, such as how to open medication containers or how to use tools like pill boxes. - Periodic medication review
A periodic medication review is a regular part of our care for the elderly. During such a review, we see if the current medication is still appropriate, or if adjustments are needed. We do this in consultation with the doctor and the patient, also paying attention to possible side effects and medication interactions.