please respond to this post
Elisa Carter E/W Hybrid
Discussion Board NUR 2322
1st Question Younger Lady and her mother who is on an antidepressant:
Let start by explaining that one side effect experienced by one may not be experienced by the another. Especially in the elderly population. People especially the elders metabolize medications slower than that of a younger person. So, with that being said, with the aging process functioning of tissue and organ in body gradually decline as a result, drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion in the elderly people are worse than those of younger people. This makes the elderly more prone to having adverse reactions to drugs and in this case antidepressants. Elderly is at increased risk of anticholinergic side effects (common in a number of antidepressant classes) and orthostatic and sedative effects. These effects can exacerbate underlying conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment, delirium and can increase the risk of falls and fractures. It is of great importance that you monitor your mother very closely to prevent any injuries or falls. Allow your mother to express her concerns and encourage her to participate in support group. I am here to help in anyways possible. If you have any additional questions, you can call me or if you prefer the office, and someone would be glad to help you with any problems or concerns.
Reference:
Antidepressants in Elderly Patients with Major and Minor Depression: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness and Guidelines [Internet]. Ottawa (ON): Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health; 2015 Aug 17. PMID: 26355183.