The results of medication-related studies are usually determined and based on young and healthy participants’ data, and are then reflected in medication doses and other aspects of health. However, chances are that we become more reliant on medications as we age, due to age-related chronic conditions such as hypertension. Unfortunately, as we age, our bodies tend to react to medications differently compared to how we might have at a younger age. An aspect of medication that may change once we’re over 60 years old is the side effects of medicine that we experience. Here are some common medication side effects to look out for as you or your loved one approach your golden years.
Muscle Pain and Weakness
A common problem that elderly patients face is high cholesterol levels, which are usually treated with a class of drugs known as statins. Unfortunately, consuming statins can lead to a dysfunction of one’s muscle fibers known as myopathy. Statin-induced myopathy is common in older adults, especially due to how widely statins are consumed by patients in this age group. In fact, studies have shown that the incidence of statin-induced myopathy is the highest in patients over 60 years of age. Myopathy as a result of statins can vary in severity, from mild fatigue or weakness in the muscles to a possibly fatal condition known as rhabdomyolysis developing in one’s muscle tissues.
Bone Loss
Older adults experiencing acid reflux, GERD, and indigestion are frequently prescribed with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). However, more than 18% of older adults taking PPIs experience reduced calcium absorption in their bodies upon consumption. In the long term, PPIs can block calcium and other essential nutrients such as iron and magnesium, which leads to elderly patients becoming more vulnerable to fractures and bone loss, among other possible injuries.
High Levels of Potassium
Having high potassium levels in one’s blood is also known as hyperkalemia, which can be caused by taking Bactrim, ARBs, and ACE inhibitors while over 60 years old. Hyperkalemia can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and even possibly fatal disturbances in heart rhythm. These medicines are often prescribed to patients experiencing MRSA infections, high blood pressure, and other conditions.
Nerve Damage
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, while not frequently used, are still consumed in cases such as when no other alternative drugs are available. Such antibiotics are not used often, with one contributing factor being that they have a well-known side effect of causing nerve damage, also known as peripheral neuropathy, which can be severely disabling for long amounts of time.
Gastrointestinal and Heart Problems
All non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including very common medications like naproxen and ibuprofen, can increase your risk of heart failure and other health problems when taking them as an individual over 60 years old. Hence, patients over 60 are often advised against taking such drugs to prevent themselves from being open to the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, acute kidney damage, and other risks.
Managing your or your loved one’s health becomes increasingly complicated over the years. If you or a loved one are looking to bring your care to the next level, consider our retirement community’s senior living options.
