Clinicians must consider multiple changes in the absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of psychotropic drugs among older patients. Lower starting dose ( often one- quarter to one -half of the usual adult dose ) is advisable with slow dosing adjustments (no sooner than 5 to 7 days) as needed. The time required to see steady -state therapeutic levels or for more elimination of most medications are substantially longer in the elderly. One must also consider the potential of drug-drug inter actions, as anti cholinergic or other side reactions when prescribing a regimen.
Changes should be made slowly changing one variable at a time , in order to achieve best results. Psychotropic drugs are by some estimate the most frequently prescribed medications in this age group. For these reasons, a fundamental grasp of psycho pharmacology is essential for Psychiatrists as…
