When someone passes away in Florida, their estate often has to go through a legal…
Many elderly Americans use multiple prescription medications at the same time, a situation known as polypharmacy. The more medications a person takes, the higher the risk of dangerous drug interactions, inappropriate prescribing, adverse reactions, hospitalisation, and even death.
Patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or other forms of dementia may take combinations of doctor-prescribed medications that increase the risk of further mental deterioration, drug interactions, accidental falls, and overdoses.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Medication Risks
Alzheimer’s disease involves changes in the brain, including neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques. Currently, many treatment approaches rely on medications designed to target the central nervous system (CNS).
These medications work through complex interactions between brain cells, the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and the central nervous system. However, combining multiple medications can increase the possibility of harmful side effects.
The Risk of Overmedication in Alzheimer’s Patients
Overmedication is a growing concern among people living with dementia. Some individuals take three or more medications outside of nursing homes or other professionally monitored environments.
Many of these prescription combinations include opioids, which may create particularly concerning drug interactions.
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) provides guidance on managing medications for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
A report from Health Day News discussed research led by Dr. Donovan Maust, associate professor of psychiatry at Michigan Medicine. The study analysed 2018 Medicare prescription data for more than 1.2 million people with dementia.
The research found that some older adults were taking multiple central nervous system medications at the same time, which may create serious health risks.
Common Medication Combinations Among Dementia Patients
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotic medications
- Anti-seizure medications
- Opioid medications combined with other CNS depressants
Despite concerns about overmedication, healthcare providers must also consider whether older adults receive adequate pain management. This is especially important for people with Alzheimer’s who may have difficulty communicating their symptoms.
How to Reduce Medication Risks for Alzheimer’s Patients
An Alzheimer’s patient’s physician should regularly complete a comprehensive medication review (CMR). This process allows one doctor to evaluate all medications a person takes and identify possible risks.
A comprehensive medication review should include:
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter medications
- Supplements and vitamins
- Possible drug interactions
- Medication dosage concerns
It is important to schedule enough time for this review. Many medical appointments are limited to short visits, which may not provide enough time to evaluate multiple medications.
Doctors may adjust medication dosages because older adults often process medications differently. Changes in the digestive system, kidneys, and liver can affect how medications work in the body.
Planning for Alzheimer’s Care and Future Needs
Research suggests that some medication combinations may create additional risks for individuals with dementia. While there is currently no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, families can still take steps to prepare for future care needs.
Estate planning can help families prepare for important decisions, including:
- Who will make medical decisions if a person becomes unable to do so
- Who will manage financial affairs
- How future long-term care costs will be handled
- What options may be available for Medicaid or Veterans’ Administration benefits
Mazenko Law helps families plan for the possibility of needing care in the future. We can help you understand options for protecting assets, preparing legal documents, and creating a plan that reflects your loved one’s wishes.
If you are looking for an estate planning attorney in the Mount Dora, Florida area, contact us at (352) 565-7737! We look forward to hearing from you!
