Laxatives and acid-suppressing agents represent the most common gastrointestinal (GI) medications utilized in long-term care (LTC) facilities. Managing GI conditions in older residents requires balancing symptom relief against risks like polypharmacy, drug interactions, and unique geriatric side effects.
The primary categories of GI drugs routinely managed in LTC settings, along with critical clinical considerations for elderly care, are outlined below. 1. Laxatives (Constipation Management)
Constipation is highly prevalent in LTC due to immobility, low fiber intake, and the side effects of other medications, such as opioid analgesics or anticholinergic drugs.
Gastrointestinal Disorders in Long-Term Care | Springer Nature Link
Leave a Reply